A Family History Captured and Preserved

I was the guest being interviewed on a radio show last Thursday! I had fun and hope the audience learned something valuable about capturing and preserving their family's history. Click on the links below to hear the show and to learn more about the Nadia Sahari Show: http://blogtalk.vo.llnwd.net/o23/shows/show_996252.mp3 http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thenadiasaharishow

I sent out an email about my appearance on the show and received a reply from a client. He said that his father, a LifeStories Alive http://www.lifestoriesalive.com/ , interviewee died just last week. I was asked during the radio show interview, "Have you experienced a situation that solidifies the importance of recording a LifeStory?" My answer related to the email I am sharing with you now. In it, my client wrote, "I wasn't sure if you saw the notice in the paper, but I lost my Dad on the 9th and that makes your work more special to me. Thanks."

When I hear of the death of a LifeStory interviewee, my mind immediately sees his face, hears his voice, and remembers some of the wonderful stories he shared with me...and future generations. I will sometimes, as in this case, tear up a bit. This guy was a very special, memorable interviewee. I quote him often. When I first met this short in stature, sweet 92-year-old, he said with a smile on his face, "I don't know why my son wants me interviewed. I'm just a simple country boy from Blanket, Texas." Yet, this "...simple country boy from Blanket, Texas" served our country bravely at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941! This same soldier was also at the battle of Iwo Jima!

Imagine that. This brave man who proudly served his country, survived World War II, built a successful business and raised a wonderful family, is so humble that he thought his stories were not special. Well, we know better now. I feel glad to have been a part of capturing and preserving his personal history and family history. I will miss him.