Every life holds a story. Yours is worth writing. Here’s how to begin.

By Lana Cullis, Co-author of Spiritual Life Writing Workbook

Yesterday I had coffee with a new friend. And we told each other stories carried close to our hearts. The kind of stories that usually go untold. The kind of stories that begin, “I had this experience…it’s hard to describe…but it changed me.” You know—faith and spirit stories.

She and I first met about 18 months ago at a meeting to organize a new book club. Since then, our club of ten has read and discussed over a dozen books. We take turns selecting books, leading conversations, and hosting meetings. The books chosen, authors, and subject matter vary widely.

Invariably, before every meeting, one or two members will research the “story behind the story” and share their discoveries during the meeting. With some books, the plot itself becomes less important than the question, “What drove the author to write this story?”

My new friend and I have both retired from careers that required us to formally document the stories of our clients. And both of us took great care to ensure that our clinical notes conveyed our client’s voice alongside medical documentation.

Why? Because stories matter, and because storytellers matter too.

We all have that uncle or grandmother who keeps us spellbound around the dinner table; they are often the same people who give toasts at weddings, eulogies at funerals, or theme talks at church.

You might be that person. We all wish we could hear or tell such important stories again—or even read a whole volume of stories of faith and spirit. During Advent we are especially mindful of messages about hope, peace, joy, and love. Ironically, though, it’s stories about faith, religion, and spirit that are the most likely to become lost. Because we hesitate to write them.

It is normal to think, “But I am not a writer. I could never do that.” But what if, with a little help, you could? 

Take the next step in sharing your own story. Join us for the Spiritual Life Writing Online Retreat, on Zoom, January 24–25. The Early Bird registration price of $60 is available until November 29 and includes a copy of the Spiritual Life Writing Workbook.This guided experience offers support, encouragement, and practical tools to help you begin writing the stories that matter most.

This Christmas season, tell someone their story matters. And remind yourself that your story matters too.

Learn more and register

​Susan Scott, Lana Cullis, and Sharon S. Hines published The Spiritual Life Writing Workbook: From Concept to Bookshelf because too many important stories remain untold.

About the authors