Ernest Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway was once challenged to tell a story in only six words:
"For sale: baby shoes, never worn."
Can you tell your life story in six words?
Here's some that got published in AARP:
"Nearing 60, still on Rough Draft."
"Defined at 21. Redefined at 57."
"Sixty. Still haven't forgiven my parents."

Lessons learned from writing memoirs:
-We all have so much in common
-Makes you confront the truth
-It provides new perspectives
-Helps make sense of our lives
-It's cathartic and therapeutic
-It creates a legacy without dollar signs
-Researchers found family history linked to children's self-esteem and resiliency

Like Arthur Hailey writing "Roots", the purpose to writing my mother's memoir, "Goodbye America", was to provide a legacy to our family and assure that her story would never be forgotten.

A memoir is easier and much less intimidating to write than an autobiography. A memoir is just one story from your life whereas an authobiography is laden with dates and facts of your entire life.
-Plot some significant moments
-Identify one pivotal event that stands out more intriguing than the others

Start writing
Good luck