Storytelling About A Remembered Loved One Fosters Resiliency

One of the best ways to keep a loved one’s memory alive is to tell their story. Close friends and family members will know their own special pieces of your loved one’s life story, and your recollections, perhaps a shared occasion, will inspire their remembrance. Storytelling is a way of bonding the living that strengthens resiliency.

During the grieving process, storytelling is a way of working through the many emotions of loss. In the beginning it may be difficult to recount a memory without being water-logged by tears, but as time goes on these stories will ignite laughter and joy too.  Remembering and sharing stories can revive thoughts about the wisdom your loved one gifted you and others. Recalling a philosophical outlook your loved one embraced is a continuing connection and guide in your ongoing life.  

The stories of your loved ones lifetime can help other people know them better in a more nuanced way that was not  conveyed through everyday interactions. Your loved one may have volunteered at an orphanage, flown airplanes or danced in a traveling musical, and if those conversations never came up with others, you can share them appropriately with caring people if you choose.  Your power of choice in storytelling helps strengthen your control as the custodian of precious memories and strengthens your resiliency journey as well.

Storytelling is a powerful tool in moving forward after the passing of a loved one. The stories keep your beloved near and present in your life. Story-sharing is a special source of support and comfort, especially when we long for a loved one. Recalling memories is a way of honoring the life of someone who impacted your life. As time moves forward, your memories and stories can become the foundation of your life experiences that foster your ongoing growth in resiliency.