Record The Moments of Life

PONCE AUTHORS PUSH MEMORIES (5/8/15)

        If you live near Ponce, you might spot Dave Savage working in his 'art garden'.  But that's not how he makes a living.  You could say that Dave inspires hope for a living. 

      Simply put: Dave and his charismatic wife encourage individuals and families to share and record their stories.

     Atlantans are certainly familiar with the StoryCorps conversations on public radio; (storycorps.org).   In these thought-felt conversations: survivors talk of resolutions; victims of failing health administer nuggets of wisdom. 

     Recordings are not always so serious, many are funny and 'feel good' talks. 

     A recent conversation was between Ambassador Andrew Young (82) and a very enthusiastic 13-year old, Tara Varzi. (IntvWithFormerMayor) Varzi set-up the interview and booked the famous former mayor because '...he had a story to tell about his father's influence on his career choice.'    

 

     Young's father wanted him to become a dentist.  By choosing a different career path, it has made all the difference. Varzi wanted this told to teens around her who were facing a similar problem, just 40 years later.

      Of course this is just one way to share important memories.   "Discovering who you are through the stories and experiences of your elders and ancestors is important to all people," said Dave.  

     "Look for gatherings where you know people will be sharing the back stories. Record these on media somehow (cellphones will work).  Have people explain any phrases or nicknames that sound funny, those hold stories as well."

     In any case, the Summer is a perfect time to start.  "With vacation visits and reunions being planned, now is the time to think about the opportunities you will never have again," said Dave.

     Dave Savage and his wife Rev. Beverly Molander wrote and recently published a helpful book Heartfelt Memorial Services: Your Guide for Planning Meaningful Funerals, Celebrations of Life and Times of Remembrance. 

     The two educators call the recordings you will make  'a lasting gift to future generations.'

      Inspiring sample videos are available at www.HeartfeltMemorialServices.com  The helpful site includes a  list of questions to promote conversations that you’ll want to record.  The book is available on Amazon.

      ---Ray Macon