The Power of Your Story: How Sharing Your Journey Can Heal & Inspire
Have you ever had a moment where someone shared something deeply personal, and suddenly, you didn’t feel so alone? That’s the magic of storytelling.
I believe stories heal—not just for the person telling them, but for the people who hear them.
For many years, I kept parts of my story to myself. It wasn’t that I was ashamed of it, but I didn’t fully understand the power it held. Now, after years of sharing my journey with others—whether in classrooms, on stage, or one-on-one—I’ve come to realize something truly special: our stories connect us, inspire us, and remind us that we are not alone.
Why Storytelling is a Tool for Healing & Connection
When I was nine years old, I survived a horrific accident that left me with third-degree burns over 60% of my body. I spent years in and out of hospital, undergoing surgeries and learning to navigate a world where I looked different. At the time, I didn’t know how to talk about what had happened. I was just focused on trying to be “normal.”
But here’s what I’ve learned over the years: not talking about something doesn’t make it go away.
Pain thrives in silence. The more we bottle things up, the heavier they become. But when we speak our truth, we lighten that load—not just for ourselves, but for others who may be carrying something similar.
- Sharing your story allows you to process your experiences. Sometimes, saying things out loud is the first step toward making sense of them.
- Your story can give someone else hope. How many times have you heard someone’s journey and thought, “If they got through that, maybe I can too”?
- It reminds us we’re not alone. When we hear someone else’s truth, it fosters connection and understanding.
I see this every time I speak at schools. Kids, especially, are naturally curious. The moment I walk into a classroom, they want to know about my burns. The moment I start sharing, something shifts. Their curiosity turns into understanding. They see me not just as someone who looks different, but as a person who has lived through something—and come out the other side.
And that’s exactly why your story matters, too.
How Sharing My Story Turned My Pain into Purpose
There was a time when I didn’t want to be “the burn survivor.” I wanted to blend in, to be just like everyone else. But then something happened that changed my perspective completely.
I was approached by a woman named Delwyn Breslau, who was starting a burn support group. She saw my scars and asked if I’d like to help other burn survivors reintegrate into school. At first, I hesitated. Did I really want to put myself in that role?
But then I thought—what if my experiences could make things easier for someone else?
So, I gave it a try. I started going into classrooms before a young burn survivor returned to school. I’d talk to their classmates, explain what burns are, and help them understand how to be supportive friends. And you know what? I loved it.
It wasn’t long before I realized that speaking openly about my journey didn’t make me weaker—it made me stronger. And, more importantly, it gave others the permission to do the same.
Now, every time I step on stage, I know that if my story helps just one person feel a little less alone, then it was worth sharing.
How to Start Sharing Your Own Story
I know sharing your story can feel scary. It’s deeply personal. It makes you feel vulnerable. But I promise you—there is power in opening up.
If you’re wondering how to start, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Start Small
You don’t have to tell your whole life story in one go. Start with a small moment—something that shaped you, something you learned. It could be a conversation that changed your outlook, a challenge you overcame, or even a time you failed but got back up.
Share in a Way That Feels Safe
You don’t have to stand on a stage or post on social media right away. Maybe you start by journaling. Maybe you talk to a close friend. Maybe you write a letter you never send. The important part is getting comfortable with your own voice.
Remember: Your Story Doesn’t Have to Be ‘Finished’
We often think we need to have everything figured out before we share. But the truth is, we’re all a work in progress. Your story is still unfolding, and that’s okay. People don’t connect with perfection—they connect with honesty.
Focus on the Lessons, Not Just the Pain
Yes, our struggles shape us, but they don’t define us. Think about what you’ve learned from your experiences. How have they changed you? What wisdom can you pass on?
Know That Your Story Matters
You might think, Who would care about my story? But I promise you—someone out there needs to hear it. Your journey, your perspective, your voice—it all matters.
Final Thoughts: Your Story is Powerful
If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: our hardest moments can become the most meaningful when we use them to help others.
So, if you’ve ever thought about sharing your story but held back—consider this your sign to start. Start small, start scared, start however you need to—but start.
Because you never know who might be waiting to hear the exact words you have to say.
