"Several
years ago my father and my husband's parents, who were all in their 80's, developed
significant health issues at the same time. One began to lose his eyesight, another
was diagnosed with dementia, and the third was nearing death. We were so overwhelmed
by the magnitude of these problems that we weren’t able to capture the story
of my mother-in-law’s life before she passed. Heartbroken, we vowed that
we would never let that happen again, a vow that inspired us to write Cherished
Memories – The Story of My Life.
A collection of thought-provoking questions organized in a beautiful portable
binder, Cherished Memories – the Story of My Life is designed to record
an individual’s life stories, wisdom, lessons learned, important experiences
and advice for future generations. Grouped according to the stages of life, the
questions serve as springboards for deep, meaningful conversations that you might
never have otherwise had with the important people in your life. Every question
is followed by plenty of space in which to record the facts, thoughts, memories
and feelings that make each individual and life journey completely unique. Cherished
Memories – the Story of My Life can be used to interview beloved family
members or friends, or to help you leave a detailed record of your own journey.
The idea for this book began when I started interviewing my father and father-in-law
and my daughter Lynn, with her husband, began interviewing her mother-in-law.
We were surprised that our questions evoked such deep emotional responses, and
were heartened by parents who took our interest in their lives as irrefutable
signs of our love, respect and appreciation. At the same time, the children and
grandchildren in our family learned to see the older generation in a completely
new and interesting light. It opened up powerful, meaningful and healing communication
among all involved.
We soon realized that the value of Cherished Memories – the Story of My
Life went beyond capturing the stories of seniors alone. During the past year,
I have been working on my own life story. And, although only in her thirties,
Lynn decided that she wanted to do the same for her husband and herself while
the memories were still fresh, so that their children would have a more complete
record. For both of us, recording these memories has become a source of joy, comfort,
purpose, laughter, tears and peace of mind. We feel certain it will be the same
for you.
We wish you great happiness and blessings on your journey."
Debby
Bitticks and Lynn Benson
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