In her 2020 “quarantine album" ‘Folklore’, Taylor Swift sings about an invisible string – the concept that fate is guiding us every step of the way to where we belong.
Swift, for her part, didn’t invent the concept, though she might’ve introduced it to much of a generation of young folks.
The idea has long existed. It’s beautiful, really, and powerful to think about in your own life.
As we wrap up summer and head into fall, we want to encourage you to think of your own invisible string and we can help.
First, identify two or three major pieces of your life that make you who you are. For example, the children you have; the place you live; the career path you’ve taken.
Once you’ve found your two or three major identifiers, it’s time to sit down with each and think about the steps (and maybe missteps) along the way that got you to the point where you are today. Perhaps, there was an earlier love whom you expected to be with you forever but instead taught you more about yourself and what you needed in life before they went their own way. Perhaps you always thought you’d have more children, but you were only able to have one or two. Maybe you never used the degree you pursued and instead landed on a wild career path that took you places you’d never imagined.
Now, if you have the time and mental space for it, consider writing a short note of thanks for the opportunities that missed you along the way. Tell them why you’re grateful they didn’t work out the way you hoped or expected. You don’t have to send the note anywhere, but maybe keep it for your files. Open it up when you need to remember why you are who you are and how you came to be.
If you’ve followed these steps, congratulations, you’ve written a huge piece of your story and I bet you also feel a bit better about who you are and where you came from.
At Memories In Writing, we believe everyone has an important story to share. We'd love to help connect you or a loved one with resources to begin recording your personal story. Learn more on our homepage.
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