Post #235 – Women’s Memoirs, Writing Prompt – Matilda Butler
Nature as Source of Inspiration
Recently, I was having breakfast on the lanai in Hawaii. The gentle breezes brought the scent of the white plumeria blossoms across the table. A pair of Common Mynas flew into the coconut palm, their yellow bare eye skin giving them a soulful look, their chattering voices indicative of their nonstop conversation. In a rare sight the nearby pond’s Black-Crested Night Heron winged its way right past the table. It was probably on its way to another pond with more fish than we have. I scooped a spoonful of the Strawberry papaya from its half-shell and let its sweet fruit linger on my tongue. It was a contented moment.
My mind started thinking about mornings, about the way that the beginning of each day is important to what gets done later that day, about the value of fresh starts. That’s when I got the inspiration for this memoir writing prompt. Hope you enjoy it and that it contributes to your appreciation of each day.
Memoir Writing Prompt: “This morning…”
1. Early in the day, before you become lost in needs and the tasks that must be accomplished, try this writing prompt. Write starting with these two words:
This morning…
2. Look around you. Really look. What do you see this morning?
3. Are there special aromas, maybe even ones that trigger additional memories?
4. Are there angry voices, pans banging, the dishwasher spraying hot water on dishes from the past several days? Maybe there are birds chirping or a dog barking.
5. Is the cup of tea or coffee by you? What is the touch of the cup? Of the liquid on your tongue? Is the cereal spoon smooth or cold? What does the napkin feel like?
6. And if this is breakfast time, write about the taste of this morning’s meal. Are you eating something sweet or savory? The taste and the smell may intermingle.
Using all five senses will help you be present in the moment and bring clarity, insights, and memories of mornings past.
Write on! Yes, once you are started by thinking about your early day, keep going. Resume your memoir writing and make some progress today.
{ 0 comments }
