Family Stories and Storytellers
The Family Weekend in San Diego was a revelation; a virtual treasure chest of stories.
From the miracle of Harold, captured on film describing his Five Principles (a piece of history that will last forever), to the stories of young G5 members told on stage, making visible their Weekend experiences, I saw first hand the wealth of human capital that fuels this family's longevity and well-being.
Family stories are golden threads connecting one generation to the next; giving cousins common bonds; and providing family newcomers insights into the values, history, and culture they are entering—and influencing. Family stories are an invaluable element of family education.
The first two stories in this Blog series were serendipitous tales I stumbled across in conversation with family members. Discovery of Sylvia’s podcast series and learning of Gillian and Emily’s 21st century adventure in the new world of connecting with strangers were clues to the potential of family stories to nurture family cohesion.
With this in mind, I'm using this blog to issue an invitation: please send stories. I've reached out to a few family members (you know who you are!) to prime the pump.
Your stories as a critical element of financial education. Many of you know I believe that financial education is most relevant—and easily acquired--when developed in the context of one’s intellectual, social, and human assets. As you build intellectual assets, critical thinking about your financial decision-making is enhanced; as you nurture social assets, you find life expressed in relationships that are priceless; and as you honor your human capital, you give meaning to your financial assets.
Your stories can be wildly varied, but I recommend short(ish) pieces--1000 words, give or take a 100 or so; something relevant to many family members (not necessarily all); and something you’d consider worthy of a family archive of stories: a story of history; a tale of work you're now engaged with; an unfinished experience (new job? New city? New life stage?); a reflection looking back; story of a recent (or remembered adventure); celebration of another family member; or a reminder of an upcoming opportunity you want family members to consider. Humor, gravitas, fun, informative…all good.
No shame, judgment, or politics allowed—though expressing values is encouraged. (I know. It’s a slippery slope—requiring discernment!) I’ll edit contributions for the time being (though one of you may want to assume the role of Family Blog Editor at some point (or maybe it’s a term limited role). You are a diverse and fascinating family—sharing stories is one way to build connections and understanding as the family evolves and disperses across the country and around the globe.
Please send ideas or contributions to joline.godfrey@gmail.com
