Everyone has them, but how often do you really listen to the stories people tell about their lives. I can't be the only one who has a relative who will tell the same stories over and over again. I wasn't sure why these memories seem to be favorites of theirs, but I have heard the same stories from the same person more times than I can count or remember. In my younger days, I would listen long enough to know I was about to hear the same story I had heard before and then my mind would wander. I didn't mean to be disrespectful to the story teller. I was just too young and dumb to understand how important those stories were to them and why they wanted to share their memories with me.
I have learned to listen like it's the first time I have heard the story. I try to learn a little more about the story teller and fill in the blanks so I know a little bit more about the person they are, the person they were and the events that shaped their lives. I have also learned that I need to listen to these stories while I can because someday the story teller won't be around to share any more and then I will only have the memories of the story teller and the story.
I understand that by sharing their stories that they are giving me a glimpse into the history of our family. They are ensuring a little part of them lives on because as long as someone is sharing their story they live on and don't we all want to remembered and live on?
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You've given me a different perspective, instead of groaning every time, my hubby and his best friend tell the same stories over and over again!
ReplyDeleteI gave you an award on my blog, when you get a chance, check it out.
And you know that willingness to listen comes through in emails and texts too! xoxo
ReplyDeleteI've "tagged" you at my blog. Feel free to participate or not. I won't get offended if you'd rather not. :-)