National Day of Listening
Friday, November 28 is National Day of Listening initiated this year by the founder of StoryCorps which is aired each week on NPR (National Public Radio).
StoryCorps is an independent nonprofit that has helped more than 40,000 Americans record their stories. It is one of the largest oral history projects of its kind, and is their mission to help people honor and celebrate one another’s lives through listening.
Here’s their goal for this first annual:
This holiday season, ask the people around you about their lives — it could be your grandmother, a teacher, or someone from the neighborhood. By listening to their stories, you will be telling them that they matter and they won’t ever be forgotten. It may be the most meaningful time you spend this year.
You can preserve the interview using tape recorders, computers, video cameras or a pen and paper. Or use StoryCorps free Do-It-Yourself Guide. It is easy to use and will prepare you and your interview partner to record a memorable conversation.
Two of the greatest gifts we can give to those we care about don’t cost a dime! They are our time and our ear. Take an hour out of your week and listen to someone you love. I’ll bet you may see bits of yourself in the interview – a mirror reflection of sorts…if you peek. I’m going to interview my 79 year old mom. I’ll let you know how it goes.
Terri
