As writers, we pride ourselves on our ability to tell a story. No matter the genre or the length, everything we do, in essence, is a product of us constructing a sequence of events and writing it in a way that others will find enjoyable. I like to think it is our gift.
Although we love to share our own little darlings, we should also consider that writing is not our only talent---we have the ability, and the desire, to share stories, regardless of who wrote them. We are storytellers. And at Christmas time, for some people, a story can be the greatest gift.
We've all read at least one book to a child, and delighted in their appreciation. Some of us have read to a church group, or to family or in front of a class. Regardless of the audience, it is an experience like no other. It is a way to share something we love, a story, and see the effect it has on another.
In the coming week, I will be reading to a group of senior citizens. It's not the first time I've done this, nor will it be the last. But this time, I won't be reading something I wrote, because it isn't about me. This is a way to give something to them, a generation of people that have given so much for all of us, and it is something that they will appreciate more than a pair of socks, or a card, or a flower.
It is the gift of me. My time and my talent for storytelling. I can assume we will discuss it and then share memories that the story may evoke. We may laugh, we may cry, we may break into song. But in return for this, I know I will get smiles and hugs and encouragement. Their gift to me.
18 comments:
Yay! I love sharing stories. This is so great of you. I recently wrote a poem (yes I know my own words) for a homeless lady, but I went one step further and shared it with her. Her reaction was incredible. Words have power...sharing words even more!
It's such a good feeling, isn't it?
That's wonderful Kelly! I still get a little stage fright when reading in front of others. It's something I am working on to overcome.
A good way to work on it is to read to a small group of senior citizens. :)
And You are "THE QUEEN " of Story telling, I for one know 1st at hand. So Amazing that you will share yourself with the elderly, that in it self is such a priceless gift ! I guarantee what you get back will be ten-fold ! God Bless You Kelly
How fun and what a sweet gift!
With my own father in an Assisted Living Center, I know first hand the kindness you are showing to so many people. I take my hat off to you, and only wish I lived closer to my father so that I could return the favor...Thank you.
I think that's wonderful, Kelly, and I love the kindness that radiates from you. I love going to spend time with the elderly in the nursing homes. Even though it can be a depressing place, there are people there in need of a little joy.
Great post Kelly. I think people forget, at Christmastime especially, giving is much more profound if it's something from the heart. Giving of yourself is much better than any gift you could buy someone. Have fun!
I enjoy it so much! I have met some of the most interesting people, and it's kind of fun to read something historical to them and see if they consider it accurate. LOL
Love this! I read to my children all the time and had never even thought about reading to others. I'll be doing something similar this Christmas season, thank to your suggestion. :)
Moonduster-thanks! My son read to a group of seniors one year when he was 10. It was a great experience for him and they so enjoyed it.
I believe our gifts are meant to be shared. Great post, Kelly.
Thanks, Loree. Good to see you!
You are so talented. I am sure those who will be enjoying your reading will appreciated the gift you are giving. :)
The nice thing about this gift is that it usually gets returned. ;)
Thanks, ladies, and yes, reading to people is always appreciated and maybe I do like the hugs I get. :)
For those of you who missed it, Rhiannon's book is #1--and I bought it, it is very interesting...
There, how is that for cross promoting?
This is a great post, and something often overlooked. Thanks for the reminder =)
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