Easter is creeping up on us quickly with the threat of enough chocolate eggs to fill a driveway. It is an exciting time for kids and adults alike with the promise of family gatherings and festivities over the short break.
Not only does this time of year herald the Easter Bunny and his diabetic-inducing treats, but it also boasts one of the world’s most famous life stories of sacrifice and forgiveness. A story that has changed the lives of so many.
This started me thinking of the stories we all share along our journey that have brought, or will bring, help, empathy and understanding to so many around and beyond us. How many books have we read that give us a glimpse of how life panned out for others entailing their personal accounts of heartache, trials, support, overcoming and achievement?
A little while ago, I was at a work function and the conversation turned to the story of my adoption and the sacrificial work of my parents who have been fostering children for over 50 years. It was amazing to hear the questions that spilled out, the interest that filled the room, the compassion that was shown and the stories that followed. What was normal to me, was different, interesting and inspiring to others. I have personally felt more understood, challenged and inspired just by listening to the life stories my friends have bravely shared over the years.
Never underestimate the power of your story. My mum always says, ‘Your trial is not always about you sweetheart, you never know who will need to hear about this in the future.’ Keeping that in mind helps me to put things into perspective and think outside myself.
Without a publisher or the talent of a wordsmith, all we need to do is open our mouths or, in thefamilyroom way, write a blog. EVERYONE has a story that is worth sharing, and the impact it could potentially have on someone going through a similar experience is priceless.
Have a brilliant Easter and listen to someone’s story and, if you’re feeling courageous enough, share yours!
Michaela.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Great post Michaela. I truly believe that EVERYONE has a story and it is our responsibility to find that story and simply listen.
Susan
I agree, the key is to listen. Listen to our lives and the lives of others. We can only do this by being actively engaged in each day. We realize our own stories as we see each day as a page written.
KG
Great Article Michaela! So true!
This is great Michaela! I love what your Mum said too about the trials we all go through…It’s so true!
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