saved through storytelling
As a millennial in a new city, struggling to find meaningful work, I recently turned to volunteering as a way of filling my time. I discovered The Best Day of My Life So Far, an initiative that began in Philly and has since moved nationwide, whose mission is to end senior isolation through intergenerational storytelling. As an English BA (and a blogger), storytelling obviously appealed to me, and seniors were a group with whom I hadn't worked previously. Now, a few months into weekly attending, I can honestly say this is not just a way to fill my time, but is usually the highlight of my week.
The seniors have so much to say and teach! We all write for about a half hour and then share what we have written; it amazes me the humor, insight, and sadness we all have to share. Particularly, I am struck by everyone's openness and willingness to tell his or her story. Especially in a city where it is the expected norm to stare straight ahead and make no contact, it is so refreshing to enter a room each week with near strangers and form a supportive community.