It was then that I realized I could help others have what I had. I’d worked for an oral history library for a few years, and had been immediately drawn in by the powerful, complex stories of peoples’ lives. More recently, I’d been a producer and casting director in the film and television industry, helping to create TV shows, short films, and documentaries. The combination of these experiences seemed to converge, and it was clear that my life’s paths had literally led me to this moment.
Inspired by the discovery of my mother’s taped interview, I decided to devote the rest of my days to helping others have what I have – a living, vivid memoir – for themselves, their children, their grandchildren, and all the generations that will follow.
With the knowledge I’ve gained, I tell as many people as I can about how, with the aid of today’s digital technology, creating a legacy for their families is not only simple, but almost imperative. I speak publicly about what a video memoir is, and also teach people how they themselves can record their loved ones’ memories.
Most important, I encourage them not to wait – not to keep postponing preserving these stories, but to do it before the opportunity is lost. A couple of hours’ effort can become a long-lasting family treasure.
I hope my sons will show my mother’s interview to their own children, so that they can spend some time getting to know their courageous great-grandmother, who was brimming with life and love throughout her days… and beyond.