Last week we talked about creating a family tree using special software programs. This week I’d like to talk about writing your memoirs. A memoir is similar to an ethical will, but it is more autobiographical then the ethical essay is.
The first step in writing memoirs is to decide how elaborate you want the memoirs to be. You can make it a few pages or novel length.
The second step in writing memoirs is to create an outline of important events in your life. Try to keep them in chronological order. If you can’t remember all of the details talk to other people who were there, if possible.
The third step is to flesh out your outline. Note how you felt during the event, who was involved, how your life changed because of the event and what lessons you learned.
Step four is to draft your memoirs. This is going to take some time so do rush the process. Allow yourself to relive each event so that you can include a rich variety of details that will help the reader to understand why you are the way you are and how the world was while you were going through your life events.
The final step is to revise the memoirs and edit. This process is just as much about development of your story as it is about finding technical errors in your writing.
Writing memoirs is a great way to develop your understanding of yourself. It is also a great way to pass on a spiritual legacy to your heirs. Finally, memoirs can be used in tandem to or opposed to an ethical will.
I create custom memoir volumes and journals with thought provoking questions on each page to help those interested in writing a journal or memoir get started. Take a look and be sure to download your free eMemoir Volume to get started! http://handhewn.co.nr ‘Every person’s life is a contribution to the story of mankind and each person’s story that isn’t recorded is like a missing page from the greatest story ever created.’ Hand Hewn