Upon the publication of my second book, “Messengers: The Courage To Rebel: The Power
To Inspire” I was asked to comment on the art of writing memoirs.
There are a multitude of reasons why this genre of composition is so popular, why I chose as a vehicle of meaningful expression. I remembered when as a young girl I received a beautiful diary as a gift. I cannot recall all of its contents, yet what stands out is the magic of its shiny gold lock and tiny sculpted key.
I loved the fact that my thoughts and written expressions could remain secret, that I and I alone could journey through its pages without being, “discovered.” There is freedom in that, a liberation to say anything without the fear of reproach, judgment or question.
In writing a memoir, for me it is crucial that there be no recrimination, no sense of censorship that looses the power of the chosen words. No matter the story, the intent must not become compromised.
Trusting in our mission to speak our own truth will allow us to form the picture necessary to convey what is considered sacred, a tribute to the paths of our journey.
Today we are often the unwitting participants in the “undressing” and “exposing” of what does not belong to us. Anything and everything goes. The boundaries of decency are blurred, have disappeared, and leaves us contemplating how best to honor the human condition.
In choosing to write one’s memoir, I recommend that the writer become very circumspect and particularly clear regarding the expectations inherent in such a very personal decision. Perhaps the following questions might serve as a guideline.
Questions upon which to reflect
1. Why have you decided to write your memoir?
2. Will you have regrets if you choose not to do so?
3. Do you desire to publish your story?
4. What aspects of your life do you wish to share? What memories do you wish to keep private, for your eyes only?
5. What do you require in order to begin the process of writing?
6. Will you involve others in your process? Will they serve as a support system?
7. Will you require professional guidance as you deliberate what to include?
8. How committed are you to completing and/or publishing your work?
9. What questions are left unanswered? What additional information is required prior to the start of your writing?
10. Have you identified the boundaries to be set, the timelines needed, all that you will require in order to accomplish the writing of your memoir?
Only we can tell our own story. Only we can define what words we shall choose to describe our experiences. Only we can determine, in the end, all the ways in which we shall pay homage to life, its lessons, and the legacy we shall leave to an awaiting world.
Marie-Eve
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