Through the Phoenix Community Wellbeing Program, we are creating a bushfire legacy book for the greater Mogo community, with inspiring stories of resilience contributed by the community. The books will be given as gifts to local schools, community groups, support services and to the story contributors.
Why share your story
Sharing can help others and you! People are inspired by authentic, empowering stories and use them to help deal with their own struggles.
By sharing your story, you also encourage others to share theirs and this builds empathy and connection.
“The secret to living is giving.” When we help others, we become part of something that is bigger than ourselves and feel better in ourselves.
By sharing your story, you realise how far you have come and what you have gained along the journey. You may feel less alone and more connected to the community you are writing for.
To contribute to a record of local history that may empower and inspire future generations.
How to share your story
Simply use the following questions as a writing guide. YOU DO NOT NEED TO WRITE LIKE HEMINGWAY! Author Natalie Stockdale will edit your stories for you. Email your draft, along with a high- res photo of yourself, to natalie@stockdalewellbeing.com by 31 December, 2022.
Feel welcome to include 1-2 other photos that are relevant to your story.
Title – can you suggest a great name for your story?
Briefly describe your life before the bushfires, your earlier comfort zone.
Describe your experience of the fire event.
What inner and external resources did you use to help you cope and recover? (Resilience tools)
What wisdom, strengths or gifts did you gain from your experience?
Your new comfort zone. Briefly describe your life now.
What is the most important advice you would offer people who are struggling?
Ideal word count - approximately 1500 words
