Everybody has a story. You’ve heard me say it before, but it is a universal truth. One of the greatest gifts of this new platform on RadioDanaKC.com is the opportunity to meet people from all over our community with different backgrounds, different life experiences, and unique and compelling life stories. This year, I had the great pleasure of meeting Mr. Bill Scott and securing a Legacy Recording for Mr. Scott and his family. I had been leading these sessions for a local hospice organization, for more than a year now. And then, I decided to add the service to RadioDanaKC.com after friends started asking me to get their parents on tape. Here’s what I can tell you. I learn something from every single person who agrees to sit down with me. While the conversations are deeply personal and will always remain private, I can share a few general life lessons from the people I’ve met with. These men and women are good. They are kind. They have a deep love for and connection to their families and to their God. They want peace for their families. I have heard some of the most genuine and lovely thoughts and musings when we reach way back into someone’s childhood. Can you remember exactly what your grandma looked like standing at the sink in the kitchen peeling potatoes? The wallpaper in the room? The sound of the old squeaky screen door leading out to the garage? I can so clearly see those things in my mind’s eye today at age 45, and I have no doubt those memories will still linger into my twilight years, should I see them. What is it about our very early years that seem to stick? I might not be able to tell you about a specific week or conversation I had at age 36 about this or that. I might not remember the details of a meeting last week. But I can so clearly look back and SEE the dusty pink tile in grandma and grandpa’s front bathroom. The carpet was thin and worn and bright- the worst kind of awful magenta. The bathroom mirror opened on the left, and inside sat a small, white ceramic mug containing my grandpa’s shaving brush. Listening to these details shared by others has jogged a flood of memories for me, and it has been so much fun to think back on those times. For some, these memories are the most clear when they start talking about sports. The catch they made to win the game in little league play. I will never forget one client who became emotional speaking about his coach putting him onto the field during a crucial game in high school. He made the play and could still FEEL that moment 60 years later. Memories are beautiful. Your legacy is beautiful! Securing these stories for families around KC has been a great honor and privilege. Go out and make NEW lovely memories with the people in your life today, my friends!
