Have you read Natalie Goldberg’s “Writing Down the Bones – Freeing the Writer Within“?
I’ve written about my love of this book, a trusted volume in my library of writing resources. It’s a book I recommend often to clients and friends who are curious about the concept of “writing for wellness”…specifically in the memoir genre.
In just two weeks or so, I’ll have the privilege of leading one of my favorite workshops at the Round Lake Public Library. Yep – you guessed it! “Writing for Wellness”!
I know it’s impractical for many of my blogging friends to attend, so I thought I’d share a couple of my favorite tips today, starting with a gem from Natalie Goldberg. One I shared in a post about a year ago:
“Many people who want to write are unconsciously seeking peace, a coming together, an acknowledging of our happiness or an examination of what is broken, hoping to embrace and bring our suffering to wholeness.”
-Introduction to the 30th Anniversary edition, May 2015, xix
Seeking peace.
I think that’s true for many aspiring writers, whether the goal is to develop a consistent self-care routine involving journaling or an exploration of broader writing aspirations. If the tug one feels is about telling stories about family history, involving sharing, personal disclosure, tales of triumph over adversity, a bit of time spent on the motivation to write is in order. What’s the ‘why’?
In my case, writing “Surviving Sue” was at the request, initially, of our adult daughter, Delaney. As she wrapped up her college education she came to me with questions…many questions…about the chaos she saw growing up, exposed to my mom, Sue, her grandmother (“Nanny”).
Delaney asked for the truth, with a hunger for details to better understand the dynamics, so we could both experience intergenerational healing, despite the trauma of life with Sue. And so I wrote. Initially just for Delaney, but the scope became bigger and I dared to share. Publishing “Surviving Sue” only after I saw the potential healing power for others by showcasing my resilience, hard won. But this is an important point, about timing: I waited eight years after Sue passed away before I considered writing about life with her. I needed the time to take care of myself and gain perspective. Gain strength. Your path? It will be uniquely yours.
Another tip?
Find the right resources.
In addition to Goldberg’s “Writing Down the Bones”, these books provide insight and inspiration — supporting a writer’s interest in memoir. More details about each are showcased on my page on the Book DNA site:
If you’re in the Chicago area, I’d love to see you at the Round Lake Library for “Writing for Wellness”. It’s a good time — every time. Opportunities to visit with folks interested in the topic means I learn new things from attendees. What a privilege it is, indeed!
Vicki 💝
P.S. Did you miss my recent post about my novel “Slivers” — inspired by my mom, Sue’s hyper-intuitive family? I shared a terrific review from writer Vickie Rubin who wrote “Raising Jess: A Story of Hope”. A book in the memoir genre which will inspire and inform. I heartily recommend it.
Hi – I’m Victoria, Vicki, Dr. Vicki. I hold a doctorate in Adult Education and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and author of Surviving Sue and Slivers.
Check out this link to learn more about my book “Surviving Sue” – all about resilience and love. Check out this link to order “Slivers”…a ghost story with surprising twists.
Victoria Ponders 
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