Legacy Letters

If you're like me, I love to remember the stories my parents and grandparents have told me. I'm especially fond of the time my granny told me about her wedding day. She was 16 and my grandfather (to be) was 32. She didn't want to marry because she didn't really know my grandfather and she felt she was too young. But while her father was away, her mother arranged the marriage. It lasted until my grandfather died and they had 12 children together. Her sister was also there while she told the story and added the details about her wedding dress. When I think about this time, it's like I'm back sitting on my granny's bed next to her old Singer treadle machine. I would hate that story to be lost when I am gone. I've come to the realization that these family stories are some of the most precious gifts I've ever been given. I encourage you all to take the time to talk with your elder family members and write down their stories. You'll be so glad you did. If you need some help, there's great books out there to give you a start. One is by a noted gerontologist named Robert Atkinson called "The Life Story Interview." It's is full of ideas to get you started. Now go out and get those stories!