Restorative Power

"Hearing you read my letter to me...(big pause)...I realize my life has been full."

When 80 year old Sheryl and I first spoke, she was really hesitant to tell her story. She thought, what story? 

Kelly Glazer Baldwin has devoted her career to the mental health and well being of older adults. She's come across many Sheryls and isn't surprised by this client's aha moment.

"There's a restorative power in these letters. When older people share what they've gone through, they feel a sense of self worth and optimism.”

I see this power over and over in my conversations with elder adults. And it stares right at you in each and every letter.

Not only has Sheryl lived a full life; she continues to live a full life, despite major health concerns. She’s retired her skis, but her optimism has carried her through life and is the reason people have gravitated towards her.

This isn't news to Sheryl's family. But it took hearing her words read back to her for Sheryl to see herself in this light.

Telling and hearing their own stories shows elder adults that they have lived a full life and they continue to matter. Talk about restorative. Sharing their experiences - what they're endured, learned and loved - fills their cup.