Jeff has been leading us through some different ways of understanding our own stories. We know one another through the sharing of our stories. First we need to know and remember our own past before we can understand and appreciate the stories of others. And we have to learn to be comfortable telling our stories and making others comfortable when they tell theirs.
This morning after our service we were given yet another exercise to awaken memories and record them for ourselves. There are just so many ways that we can do this. Today we were given a standard sheet of copy paper and the choice of writing/drawing implement. I had my purple gel pen with me so I was all set. We were instructed to choose an 'elder' or some person in our life that had been a significant influence. Hmmmm.... I am nearly seventy-four. A LOT of people have influenced who I am. I chose my dad.
The next part of the instruction was to write that persons name in the center of the paper, circle it if we wanted, and t h e n whatever popped into our mind, draw a line, write it down -- words or pictures. And if that thought sparked another, draw a line, identify the thought -- an so on. We were given ten/fifteen minutes. My mind works quickly so I drew lines and circles and words and simple pictures. And then I stopped and looked at all of it and was surprised.
Jeff asked: "What did that feel like for you?" Most said that it brought back forgotten memories. For me it was a surprise. It seems that I am much like my dad and hadn't realized the similarities. It made me feel good. And sad. Notice the heart with the hole that he left in my life when he died. Also notice that he was so connected to my sister and she to me with a love that is so binding, and the love of God, who holds me in God's hands.
