I've always loved reading autobiographies. I check out books from the library and am fascinated by the paths that led people to where they are. Have you ever noticed though, that most of the published books are about famous people? It's difficult to get published when you're not in the spotlight.

Sometimes it seems like people aren't interested in ordinary lives. I believe though, that every ordinary person can do extraordinary things. We don't get to share our stories during the hard times. We only get to share when there is a happy ending. What happens when it's not a happy ending? Who do we turn to?

Life is filled with both joy and sorrow, the mundane and the exciting. Position in life does not determine value. You have a story worth telling. It may not be placed in a bookstore or library, but someone wants to hear it. One benefit of telling your story is that you will see that it is not the end. One day, when you look back, you will see that it was only the beginning.

When you tell it, don't do it for the purpose of receiving an income. Do it with the purpose of making a human connection. Be willing to listen to the other person's story as well. When we share with each other and receive sincerely, we each grow from it.

I've never been wealthy or in a public position, but when people in places I volunteer at come to me for advice, it warms my heart. I didn't know my opinion mattered so much. Occasionally, someone will call or send a thank you note. Recently, a man said he wanted to consult with me because the Bible said to seek Godly counsel. It made me smile. I've come a long way from where I was twenty-five years ago. I've made my own share of mistakes but God keeps working on me.

What's your story? If you have always wanted to tell your story, I'd love to read it. I can't offer anything in return, except for encouragement. All I ask is that the stories be family friendly and sincere. Sometimes, just telling the story to someone who cares begins the healing or growth process. When we keep things inside, it has a way of keeping us from moving forward.

Your story matters. It was meant to be shared. The past is not the end of the story. There is also a future. Learn from yesterday, live for today and build toward the future.