One of the greatest powers that writing provides is the ability to pass knowledge and information on to future generations. This isn’t just for the greatest minds. This power is available to all of us.
There are things you need to say. You need to tell your loved ones how you feel. Tell them. Say it. They need to hear you say the words.
But there’s information you also need to pass on that although they’d love to hear you tell them, they’d benefit from clear, written instructions. How to unlock that sticky back gate. What your grandfather told you about life in the depression. The passwords for all of your online accounts. Where you buried the gold.
These are all things that those you leave behind need to know. If you tell them these things they may forget. Written instructions are what may make a difference.
For today’s assignment, begin writing the things you need to pass along. Ask yourself a simple question: if I’m not around, what does my partner/children/co-workers/friend need to know that only I know now?
Start simple. Write the instructions for how to get the stereo to operate correctly. Tell a story that someone passed on to you. Select one simple thing and write down everything that someone who comes after you might want to know, might need to know, and might value.
A good place to start might be this: Why I wanted to be a writer.
You may leave your completed assignment in the comments section below.
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You can do it without me: Cook’s Illustrated/America’s Test Kitchen’s The Best Sweet Potato Pie. (2 tablespoons of bourbon, yes to the molasses.)