place the flowers in the vase that we bought today
In the famous television show “This Is Us” last week there was a segment that really gave me pause to think as I continue my journey in organizing and preserving family stories. The main character was telling her husband the story of how Joni Mitchell and Graham Nash came up with the song “our house” in the well known folk song from the 60’s I love. She first told him in much enthusiasm and joy that they went to a local farmers market or antique shop and bought a vase for the new house they bought. When they came home, Nash sat down and wrote the song the words “I’ll light the fire, while you place the flowers in the vase that we bought today.” was from earlier that day when they where new in love and all their hopes in life just beginning.
““ Peoples stories are told from the inside out.””
When hearing specific details, getting small detailed information from a relative or those generations to come receiving it from their parents, is important to import the actual feel of someones life. Peoples stories are told from the inside out. In this way we actually can get enough imagery to walk in the tales our grandparents have lived. It is in these details and memories that stay with us long after our dearest family members are gone. To hear the words in the song is the outside. “in the vase we bought today.” to actually know the details of those words we learn our families history from the inside out. This is the work I feel I was meant to help you with.