Family History Catalysts
Participants will explore themes of branching points, family relationships, life pursuits, family rituals and traditions. Each theme-based class session includes preparation to write a two-page story, group sharing, and creative writing exercises.
Our purpose in writing and sharing together is to refresh and recall the memories and events of our lives, to organize our life history, and to share them with others.
About Our Courses
Class Format
Each Course consists of five classes which are delivered in a consistent format. Each class opens fifteen minutes early for socializing.
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- Sharing Stories. Participants will read their two-page stories aloud to a small sharing group (no larger than six members.) Listeners will offer support and encouragement. No judgements are offered.
- Ten-minute Break.
- Theme Introduction. The theme for the next week’s story is introduced with several prompting questions. These questions are designed to help writers consider which story they wish to tell. Writers will tell their story in a two-page (800-1000 word) essay.
- Creative writing exercises. These activities help the writer to explore the theme and improve writing skills. Writers leave motivated to write their next story.
Expectations for Participants
The primary expectation is respecting the confidentiality of all shared information.
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- Attend all class sessions
- Have access to Zoom via a computer, tablet of phone
- Participate fully in writing, sharing and discussion
- Complete all writing assignments on time
- Read two pages of your life story in each session
Course Details
Each course has a different overall theme as indicated in the title.
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- Courses 1 to 4 offer four different yet related themes. Each week new writing exercises are introduced.
- Course 5 introduces various methods of preserving and sharing your stories. We offer a variety of sources to help you take that next step.
Courses Offered
Discovering Your Family Story
Course 1: Life’s Branching Points, Family Relationships, Family Rituals & Traditions, and Life’s Pursuits
Sharing Your Lived Experience
Course 2: Family Heirlooms, Family & Historical Events, Research Trips & Family Travel, and Military Service
Exploring Your Family Tree
Course 3: Historical, Cultural & Geographic Context, Character Roles across Generations, Virtues & Values, and Courage
Leaving Your Legacy
Course 4: Life Goals & Values, Spiritual Beliefs & Aging, Greatest Achievements, and Legacy Letter
Preserving and Sharing Your Stories
Course 5: Publishing, Creating a Digital Archive, Preserving Your Archive, and Digital Storytelling
