KATHMANDU, AUGUST 3
A few weeks ago, I got an opportunity to participate in The Moth's personal storytelling workshop, in partnership with UN Women.
It was a memorable experience sharing my story and hearing stories of other women from different walks of life. Storytelling has been a powerful medium to connect women globally; it's like building a bridge around us instead of walls. Together, we can bring change.
Everyone's story is different, thus unique. Telling stories allow others to see the complicated, tangled and imperfect parts of us, creating a space for them to share their stories. When we start embracing imperfection together, we start building trust together.
Trust is the key to connect and form a relationship that enables us to have greater impact. Ultimately, it helps to regain our voice and stand in unity for the greatest good and benefit of all.
Listening to the experiences of other fellow women, I was touched by the trust they placed in us with their most treasured possessions – their honesty and vulnerability while sharing the story. No matter how vulnerable the stories were, the positive and powerful words showed ability, strength and hope. This is the charm of emotions and words that add beauty to the stories.
Words matter. The meaningful selection of words to define the experience of our lives can heighten our empowering emotions. No doubt, most beliefs are created by words, but they can also be changed by words. To realise the importance of words means to be able to break our pattern. Sometimes breaking patterns is crucial to change the behaviour, which eventually directs our destiny. As the old proverb goes, words can heal or wound.
True then, true now.
Honestly speaking, I had no idea how deeply and richly their experiences would transform my perspective towards life.
Every word was told by heart, felt by the heart, and listened by the heart. The wise use of metaphors, the calm and composed tone, and above all, the impressive expressions, were the gems of the participants. Listening to them was truly inspirational.
Not only did I learn to be more creative, but also more curious and compassionate.
Regardless of our past, we all have valuable insights, unique perspectives and wonderful experiences that have shaped us into who we are today. For too long, the stories of women have gone unheard, unnoticed and unappreciated. It's never too late to start a new way to celebrate the uniqueness of women all around the world. And one uncommon yet inspiring way is by sharing our own stories.
Sharing is caring and also empowering.
Empowering each other is essential to make this world a better place to live in!
A version of this article appears in the print on August 4 2021, of The Himalayan Times.
