Found computer files become a posthumous memoir
She found Don’s computer files with his writings, now what?
Before his passing, Don McCarty began a memoir, writing down his recollections as time allowed and as stories occurred to him.
Thanks to his efforts, his wife, Geraldine, could now read wonderfully detailed stories ranging from Don’s childhood years growing up in Big Springs, Texas to his career as a scientist working on satellites and eventually the space program’s moon lander vehicle. Don recalled winning a high school writing contest that led to a college scholarship where he discovered a passion for Physics.
She couldn’t wait to share the found stories with the family.
She had a stack of loose printed papers and a desire for his life to be remembered by his children, grandchildren, family, and colleagues. She had thought of just making multiple copies and sending them through the mail, but it was just loose papers after all.
That’s when she reached out to me.
She handed me a large manila envelope full of unordered memories, along with photographs and documents, and we returned to her a galley proof with a chronological narrative structure that carries the reader through Don’s life in his own words, from stories of his ancestors, his childhood, his school years, his professional career and retirement.
Then the magic started to happen 🪄
Geraldine searched for photographs and blueprints to be included in the book, family members wrote dedications and recollections that appear in the forward of his memoir. She was inspired to include photographs of Don with his grandchildren as a way to encourage them to engage in their family history. It became an exciting family event.
Don started his memoir and his family carried it over the finish line.
Don wrote, “I am beginning the writing of this memoir on 31 January 2014 and will write as events come to mind. At the moment I am tired of working on our 2013 tax returns, so thought I’d jot down a few items. Writing for me, has been and is the equivalent of ‘pulling teeth; it was always the least liked aspect of my working career, but ultimately an equally important aspect. I hope this doesn’t sound too much like a technical report—that is my long-ingrained style.”
Even though I never met Don, I know a bit about the kind of person he was by the dedication of his family to preserve his life story. Through the creation of his memoir, I learned about the crossroads he faced and how he made the choices he did. I learned he was a fun companion on a road trip and that he definitely had a sweet tooth 🍪. I also learned that his stories were very engaging and not at all like a technical report.
Today, Don’s family can pick up his completed memoir and read about the person who meant the world to them (much better than leafing through a stack of papers).
Isn’t it about time to start (and finish) your memoir?
Angela
Let me know if you have a memoir project that needs some attention. Working together is not only enjoyable, it’s sure to get done.
Our stories matter,
Angela
