“”Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we’ll ever do.” I still believe in this quote from two of my previous books—maybe now more than ever. But I know that it takes more than courage to own your story. We own our stories so we don’t spend our lives being defined by them or denying them. And while the journey is long and difficult at times, it is the path to living a more wholehearted life.”
~ Brené Brown, Rising Strong
As a memoir author I can attest to the courage it takes take hold of one’s truth, wrestle with it for years until you own it, and finally risk being vulnerable enough to release it into the world.
My book was about navigating the multi-layered labyrinth of adoptee grief. I’m still an adoptee and I still struggle with grief and rejection issues but I’ve built an arsenal of tools that help loosen the tenuous grip of darkness when I get caught up in the vortex. Writing is one of those tools.
Maybe you’re facing something. Writing might help you sort through it. Pull up a blank document, or pick up a pen and paper, and just start writing. No rules. No censorship. Just let the words come. If you have privacy concerns you can password protect or delete electronic documents, and burning a piece of paper can be incredibly therapeutic and freeing.
Ernest Hemmingway wisely advised that we “write hard and clear about what hurts”. I don’t know if he was talking about writing fiction or personal journaling. Either way his advice is good. Allowing oneself to be open enough to write about those things that hurt can be a strong first step in finding a measure of acceptance and healing.
Beautifully written and so heart felt.
I’ve never written an entire book on myself, but I’ve written poems and they are very personal. And some were hard to imagine other people reading. But now that they are out there, I feel like to do own them. Other stories I’m working on – while not about me, but my ancestors – are personal as well. You have great courage, Linda.