When my grandfather passed, I was left with only memories and a few photos. When my grandmother passed a few years later, my mom captured some of her last moments in the hospital. The audio was poor, and the camera was pointed at the floor, but the video is priceless.

When a loved one passes, it is often the memories and stories that become the most cherished treasures. Too often, these stories fade with time. Preserving them is not only a way to honor those who came before us but also a powerful gift to those who will come after. One day, when my grandchildren ask, “What were your parents like?” I want to have an emotional, powerful video to share with them.

Time has a way of slipping past us. One day, we realize we don’t know as much about our parents’ stories as we wish we did. What were their dreams growing up? What lessons shaped their character? What do they hope to pass on?

I approached him, head hung low at 7:00pm the night before it was due. Feelings of guilt were overruled by thoughts of walking into class embarrassed and empty handed. “Dad, I need your help...”

Dr. Bob Leonard has been a loud voice for poor people, unions, disenfranchised peoples, and left-leaning politics. A long-time radio host and writer for large newspapers, Dr. Bob (a name he acquired as a middle ground between people wanting to be respectful and his aversion to the “poshness” of Dr. Leonard) has left a legacy, one larger than most that I have had the privilege to interview.

“You know, I didn’t always think I would have a successful career. I have a lot of sympathy for bums, because once upon a time I was one.” Kevin looked down at his coffee.

John was from a small farm in Iowa. As their relationship grew, so did the idea of moving to the fly over state. After years of warming up to the idea, they made their decision.

Steve was an experienced hunting guide in Alaska. He had led many eager, and often unskilled, hunters to kill a bear. As Steve described his job, I shivered. Not a job I want.

On one of his last hunt tours, he had an encounter that affirmed my wariness. 

“I had the same prayer,” Beverly shared, “And that was how we met.”

It was years more before they would become reacquainted and start a relationship, but this story struck me deep.

Every couple has a spark to start their relationship. Dave and Joan were no different. But while interviewing them, I found the beginning of their relationship to stand out among the rest.