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Dear Papi by Maike Wessel This story is a letter I wrote to my father for his 75th birthday. I expressed my deep gratitude for all he has given me, symbolized by a lamp that we had crafted together years ago. At my last visit in Germany, I showed him the story. He broke into tears. View the story ... What a powerful way a digital story is to celebrate a beloved. |
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The Window by Ron Melmon I have always been curious about why I do the things I do, how I work. The Window for me is a metaphor for stepping into a new phase of my life, a new adventure. Now, three years later, I am amazed how accurate it still is, this portrait of myself. View the story ... Express who you are and share the gift of yourself through a digital story. |
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Sha Sha by Peter Thomas One day, I looked in the mirror and was shocked. I couldn't believe how old I was. Bald head, saggy eyes, deep creases - how could this have happened to ME? I hated it. Then, I opened the closet - and found a friend from long ago. Someone as old as me, as worn and torn as me. But still as young as me. And - a whole lot wiser. View the story ... Sometimes, it is an old stuffed bear who reminds us of the deeper truths of life. |
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My Voice by Nancy Lee Melmon From early on, I loved to write, sing and play piano. As I grew up, my inner critic took over. I stopped expressing myself joyfully. For the digital storytelling workshop, I was encouraged to share what was most meaningful to me. My voice spoke up, insisting 'tell this story!'. It was difficult. I didn't want to expose myself. I didn't want to be vulnerable. This took courage. But as I wrote, the joy was flowing. My voice was speaking and singing and writing. I am coming home, being at peace with myself, being whole. View the story ... When we look inside, with courage and honesty, and share what matters most to us, we create a space inviting others to open up, too. |
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Fresh Fish by Mei Wei Wong My parents are soon celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary. I wanted to give them something back, something I truly value: our time and experiences we shared together. My fondest memories circle around preparing steamed fresh fish - oh, so yummy! - a symbol of my family's abundant love. View the story ... By remembering what was meaningful and nourishing while growing up, we give back to the people who formed our lives. |
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The Katie Movie by Jeanie Stevenson My daughter's 20th birthday was coming up and I wanted to gift her with something special and meaningful. I looked at photos of her through the years, from baby to the gorgeous young woman she is now. With the pictures, I saw so clearly, as never before, what I most love about her. On her birthday, Katie watched her "movie" over and over again, saying that it was the best gift ever. View the story ... Telling someone what we love about them through a digital story can be the most precious gift they ever received. |
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My Mother's Necklace by Gila Shire At age 89, Gila's grandmother was feeling weak and sickly. Before it could be too late, Gila wanted to thank her for the enormous selfless gift she had given to the family. It became the story of five women in four generations, connected through loss and love - all pearls of one beautiful necklace. At her 90th birthday, "Omi" saw the story and was deeply touched. View the story ... Digital stories allow you to look back with appreciation and understanding, fostering deeper and stronger family bonds. |