Hopefully, from the first August post, you tried writing a message to your younger self. There are some great insights to be found in our wisdom when exploring what we've learned.
Next, consider connecting others with wisdom from your past. And, the best way is with a story or shared memory. A favorite of mine was to hear my dad, Stanley, tell the story of meeting my mom. They were in high school at a soda shop in a little town in Indiana in 1941. He was popular with the girls, cute and full of fun. When he made a joke that my mom didn't like, she stood up and huffed out. At that moment, he was smitten. All the other girls fawned all over him, but Emma Lou caught his heart!
For me, his story was a magical tale of soulmates and even more fun as my mom peppered his story with her own sarcastic take on it.
"Sometimes reality is too complex. Stories give it form." Jean Luc Godard, French-Swiss film director* The key is that sharing our stories of learning experiences and past successes act as inspiration for younger people.
Try This: Tell a Story to Delight Someone
This week, reach out to several young people to share a memory or fun story from the past that made you smile. Chances are, it will brighten their day as well. Here are some ideas:
- Call and tell a fun story or memory, leave a voice mail if necessary
- Write a story on a notecard
- Send a postcard with a quick memory
- Email a story or memory and attach a photo
Often, when I have sent an email with a story, the family member or friend is delighted. The ability to send a "smile" is a great way to connect with others.
*Jean Luc Godard quote: https://www.inc.com/dave-kerpen/you-need-to-become-a-better-storyteller-heres-some-inspiration.html