My maternal grandmother turned 90 last year, my mother thought it the perfect time to start writing a book about her remarkable life. Most of it is written by my mother, as well as collecting pieces from various family members who have contributed. I have been nominated to weave it all together and edit. We have the last few bits to do, before we send it to print; what a beautiful journey the last few weeks have been, reading memories by my grandmother’s cousin who she was raised with, sifting through old black and white worn-down photographs from the 1930s.
The book begins, with nanny’s early childhood, followed by early adulthood and her marriage to my grandfather, then moves to the wisdom she has imparted to her grand and great grandchildren over the years.
My grandparents were both educators and there are many people I have met over the years who attribute their success to them. One gentleman, I met a few years ago recounted “everyone thought I was going to be a drop out, but your grandmother told me she believed in me and that I must study hard and not give up and make something of my life.” He is now retired but during his working years he was a very successful hotelier, which he said was all because of the belief my grandmother had in him. This is one story of many and of course they are always so wonderful to hear. I often think I have inherited many character traits from my grandparents, my grandmother positive outlook and my grandfather discipline and commitment.
So, my question to you, years from now, if someone decides to write a book about your life, what will they say about you? What will be the chapters that make up your life? How will people remember you? I ask you these questions because you get to choose, right now, this very present moment you are living your story. The paths one takes in life depend in part on the family dynamics of childhood, but of course there are so many other factors to add, that are all up to you.
Biographies do more than inform readers about a remarkable life. These true life stories explain the contributions to the world by a person. What life lessons will there be in the story of your life? Will your life motivate and inspire people? What struggles, mistakes, failures and character flaws, would your story tell so that the reader can find things in common with their own lives.
• The author is a consultant and coach. Instagram handle: @miss_shefa, Website: missshefa.com
