Story writing

These are the questions that should be answered by anyone putting words on paper.

 

Many years ago, I taught elementary school, third and fourth grades, in a rural school in Central Iowa. The students loved to hear stories, read stories, and even write their own stories. I would ask the children each of these questions and ask them to write down their answers.

 

Who is the main character of your story? A person, animal, friend, family, etc.

 

What happens to the people in your story? Was it funny, scary, happy, sad?

 

Where did the story take place? Inside, outside, in a house, on a farm?

 

Why are you telling(writing) this story? Something you found funny or scary?

 

When did this happen? A long time ago, just yesterday?

 

The results were wide and varied, but the children loved to read their own stories to the class. There were no wrong answers, they paid attention to their spelling, penmanship, and most liked to stand in front of the class and wait for the reactions.

 

Some were funny, like Ronnie, who got chased by an angry pig, or Jennifer, who went shopping for a new dress.  Bobby was so proud to share that he helped his mother with chicken chores and wrote in detail how and why not to frighten the flock.

 

This exercise in being creative isn’t only something to teach in a classroom. If you have youngsters in your life, like grandchildren and they visit often, or you are a primary caregiver, it might fill some hours and even provide some quiet time for creativity.

 

This process is also quite flexible.  Encouraging an older person to talk and tell stories is an excellent way to recall their memories and brighten their spirits. I don’t think I know a Senior who isn’t anxious to share their past.

 

Using the keywords, it may open that door.

 

Who? What? Where? Why? When?

 

 

– Isobel from Hot Springs, Arkansas, a FAR customer who is finding purpose in this new stage of her life.

 

* The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the Finance of America Reverse (LLC).

 

This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only, and should not be construed as financial or tax advice. For more information about whether a reverse mortgage may be right for you, you should consult an independent financial advisor. For tax advice, please consult a tax professional.