The Idea

This idea came to me as I was reading a book, simultaneously texting a friend about our respective Saturdays. Perhaps multi-tasking is my strong suit, or alternatively I am simply addicted to my phone.

In fact it was the latter realization that made me abruptly delete my social media apps this morning. I go through the various cycles of a tenuous relationship with it: That toggle between I have seen so many tutorials! I can strip furniture now! I can do fab hairstyles! (vs.) I should not know what a random acquaintance from high school ate for lunch today, please turn this sh** off. Does this sound familiar? Am I alone in this? Somehow, I doubt it. (And seems important to note here that this is probably the tenth time I have embarked on the hate phase of the love/hate cycle. Let’s see how long it lasts this time!)

But sitting with this realization deeper, all while texting my good friend/reading a book, it dawned on me that one of the components of social media that compels me is the aspect of connection. And that very same thing about social media turns me off. Because I don’t feel actually connected to people on social media. I don’t even feel connected to my friend’s Instagram account, who I am currently texting. I know her so deeply, so well. She has so many layers to her, all of which I adore. Her page, while full of beautiful images, isn’t a deep depiction of who she is. Mine sure isn’t, and I’d bet in all honestly, yours isn’t either.

So I got an idea – and without a second’s pause texted my friend;

“I need your help with an idea… I am working on just writing, stories, ideas, etc. And I think one of the things that inspires me are stories of the women in my life. I’m considering interviewing women I know and making a list of short stories. Can I start with you?”

And without hesitation her reply was; “Hell ya.”

We all have stories to tell, and those stories can create endless inspiration, and connection. I think many of us exist without the belief that our own stories matter just as much as anyone else's. But they do, we all matter. We all have something we've overcome, and that something is worth sharing.

Because what if your story is exactly what someone needs to feel less alone? Or what if your story can teach them something they needed to learn? Our stories are what makes us unique, while simultaneously connecting us on a deep level. I want to share her story. I want to share yours. And maybe, just maybe, we can all become better for it.

So this idea begins now.