One of my ghostwriting clients put it this way: ‘I just want to save my story so it doesn’t get lost in life’s shuffle.’ What a lovely way of putting it. We can all get a bit swamped in the busyness of living and not spare enough time to reflect on what’s important in the longer run. That, my friends, is why I want to encourage you to look further and leave some form of legacy. Perhaps you could do it with words – because of their staying power and their ability to enchant us.
The purpose of the LifeStory Writing project is to help people write their memoir. To create what may be their greatest gift.
And it’s not just a story. You are opening up and giving of yourself. It isn’t about ego, but rather, making a valuable contribution the world, to family. Through memoir you create a legacy. Why should we return to dust and leave nothing of ourselves behind? In the process you are likely to find out about yourself – because it is self-discovery.
You may want to use a professional editor or writing coach to help bring your story to life; or even a ghostwriter to write your story for you.
However you approach it, I want to inspire you to put words onto the page. I trust your writing project will be a high point in your life.
“I appreciate your encouragement and your thoughts on just getting something down on paper. It has been quite an epiphany for me to be honest . . . I am having an absolutely delightful time going back to those places and getting it all out of my head and into written form. . . I want to say thanks so much for your edits, the time spent and the lovely warm tone in which you delivered all the information . . . You have shown me the importance of consulting and sharing information with others who have demonstrated skills and experience. There is so much to learn in life I think! I have gained much from you already. Thanks again.” – Ros L. (Melbourne).
“I knew from the moment we first spoke, you were what my story needed.
I want to leave something for my family and want it to be as good as it can be.” – Joe L. (Perth).
“Thank you for my book Mark. It was fun. I enjoyed the interviews and looking back on fond memories and I’m so proud of the final result . . .
It makes me so happy to think that we’ve been able to relate some of my life story to my wonderful family.” – Anne E. (Canberra).
“Thanks a million Mark, for all the assistance you gave me . . . this was seven years in the making and without your valuable and much appreciated input it might have remained a manuscript forever. So thanks again Mark – now I feel quite proud of myself, being able to leave my children and grandchildren something much more tangible than a cemetery plot, my life story, a real legacy. Whenever they’re lonely or in need of my company, I’ll be in spirit right there, inside that legacy.” – Erich M. (Bargo, NSW)
If you have any questions or need more information please contact me at LifeStory Writing any time.
Simple stories well told
Writing your life story is a wonderfully rewarding experience. You don’t need to be famous.
I think there is magic in simple stories from everyday people, well told.
It’s a fascinating quest yet it can be frustrating, and indeed life-changing.
When they come from the heart, great stories emerge.
And I must say that my contact with people in helping them with their life story is an absolute joy; whether it be through mentoring or editing or conducting seminars.
I wish you well in your endeavour and look forward to your contact.
Please make use of any ideas and information here that spark your imagination.
Mark Koehler, founder LifeStory Writing
BA Professional Writing
Member Australian Society of Authors
Member Life Stories Australia
Donations
LifeStory Writing reserves a portion of writing and editing charges to make regular donations to:
- Arthritis Australia
- Vision Australia
These two organisations do a wonderful job in helping many thousands of people (particularly older Australians).
