What is your defining moment? What one event in your life represents all of your triumphs and struggles? What part of your story is the most important?

If you are a regular human like the rest of us, this is not easy. Our lives are made up of interconnected moments; joys and sorrows that comprise our unique story. When you pass away, what parts of this story beg to be shared? Who knows which parts of the tale you find the most meaningful?

That is why I am holding a workshop on obituary writing. Whether it is your own story you are wanting to preserve, or the story of someone you love (or not!), a little preparation can go a long way. Putting your story down on paper will help those left behind (and the unwitting funeral director with whom they work!) to commemorate your life honestly and appropriately.

For instance, does your family know that your early experiences with the marching band in high school were really important to you? Do they know which clubs or organizations spoke to you and which ones were just filler?

In a more bare bones vein of thought, are the names of your family members (living and deceased) written down anywhere? Are the unusual spellings recorded? What was grandma’s maiden name?

In addition to the facts, what are the causes that were near and dear to you? What beauty brought you to tears? What experience changed your life in cataclysmic ways? Which achievements brought you the most satisfaction and joy?

I hope that you will join me on Friday September 7th at 10:30 a.m. or Saturday September 8th at 11:00 a.m. for a free workshop on writing an obituary. Workshop will be held at the Racine Arts Council office located at 419-6th Street in downtown Racine. Pre-registration is not required.

I promise that this event will be informative, entertaining and totally painless!