"Your past is your story up to now. The future is the story yet to come. The present is where you live with that experience, your hopes and your dreams."

Opening Remarks: National Joe Day–What’s in a Name?

– Tom

Featured Article: Fruits of Your Passions

I have many things I am passionate about. Music, baseball, good food, getting outdoors daily, and, of course, life stories.

It can turn negative if those passions control us and lead to unhealthy behaviors. Addicts know what I am referring to.

Have you ever stopped to think about how the things you're passionate about actually benefit you? It's more than just a hobby or a passing interest. Your passions are the fire that lights your way, shaping your life story in ways you might not even realize.

When you're writing your memoir, exploring your passions is key. It's like adding vibrant colors to a painting, making your story come alive. Think about it: what gets you excited? What makes you feel truly alive? These are the threads that weave together the rich tapestry of your life.

How things you are passionate about benefit you becomes clear when you see how they shape your choices. Remember that time you stayed up all night working on a project, not because you had to, but because you *wanted* to?

That's passion in action.

The fruit of your passions isn't always something tangible. Sometimes, it's the feeling of accomplishment, the joy of creation, or the satisfaction of a job well done. These are the moments that make life worth living, the stories you'll want to share with the world.

Think about your own life story.

What were you drawn to as a child? What activities made you lose track of time? These early passions often hold clues to your true self, the person you were meant to be.

The things you are passionate about benefit you beyond just personal fulfillment. They can also connect you with others who share your interests. Think about the friends you've made through your hobbies or the communities you've joined because of your passions.

Writing has brought me into contact with so many amazing people. I've learned from other writers, shared my own experiences, and built relationships that have enriched my life in countless ways. I have especially enjoyed working with others on their memoirs and life story projects.

The fruit of your passions can be a source of resilience, helping you bounce back from setbacks and emerge stronger than before. It's like a hidden superpower, a secret weapon that you can always rely on.

Embrace the fruit of your passions and share your story with the world. Your experiences, your joys, your sorrows, your triumphs – these are the things that make you who you are. And they are worth sharing.

Featured Resource: Shimmering Images Writing Tip

Closing Information

Tom Gilbert