On my way home from a digital storytelling workshop at Cebu Normal University (Cebu City, Philippines) last week, I saw a Facebook post by Rae. She shared her experience from the workshop – it was her second time volunteering as my assistant.
Though my body was tired from the day’s work, my heart felt deeply energized and full of life after reading her words. Moments like these remind me why I do what I do.
She wrote:
“When my friend Aurelia ventures out of her cave, she brings to the table eyes that have witnessed many an untold story. A quiet voice floating from the deep silence. And presence like sand shifting with the ocean waves.
Former journalists come in various flavors.
It is always an honor to witness The Story Factory turn its gears. Sometimes, she invites Carl and me to assist in one of her digital storytelling workshops, and I witness people from different walks of life immortalize a glimpse of their personal journey.
In their own voice.
Today, I encountered fellow students of life about to graduate from university.
While helping some rehearse their piece — prior to voice recording — I learned once more how to hope. How to sit with dreams and despair. How to step into the unknown holding on to moments of joy, in a world that can drag us down.
We came here to teach, yet I come home having been taught how to write from my heart again.“