Own Your Obituary

So much about the end of life is beyond our control. We can, however, have input into the wording of our obituary. Short and sweet? In chronological order? Just the facts?

Join us as we engage in a process that invites us to put down on paper how we’d like to be remembered. Even if what we write won’t be used as our official death notice to the world, it can help us identity what’s important in the here and now. We can celebrate what we’ve accomplished, acknowledge what we missed along the way, and consider what we’d still like to get done in the time we have left.

During our time together we’ll take a brief look at the history of obituaries and discuss the challenges we might face when penning obituaries for loved ones. Most importantly, we’ll write about our lives in a way that recognizes what matters to us. This workshop is not about critique or comparison; it’s about honoring our lives in the language we choose.

Bring your favorite journal and writing instrument. Refreshments will be provided.

Facilitated by Amy-Lyles Wilson: Story Coach & Spiritual Director

Amy-Lyles Wilson believes it is the sharing of our stories that saves us. Toward that end, she helps people get to the heart of the matter through words through a variety of creative and spiritual practices. She has been published in a variety of magazines and co-authored or contributed to eight books. Her essay “The Guts to Keep Going” was featured on National Public Radio. Amy-Lyles has served as adjunct professor and writer-in-residence at the Earlham School of Religion, and led workshops across the South, as well as at the Chautauqua Institution. She is a trained spiritual director and facilitator of both Amherst Writers and Artists and SoulCollage® workshops, and holds degrees in English, journalism, and theology. In 2021, she earned a certificate in narrative healthcare from Lenoir-Rhyne University as part of her commitment to continued education and training. Amy-Lyles has been both a patient care volunteer and a part-time employee for Alive Hospice. She is affiliated with Day 7 and Wisdom Tree Collective, and serves on the board of directors for St. Mary’s Sewanee Retreat Center. Learn more at www.amylyleswilson.com.

This group is intended for community members who reside in Middle TN, and family members of Alive Hospice patients regardless of location.