Humans are storytellers. We tell stories and have done so since the beginning of time. We have a powerful, innate desire to express ourselves. What are your stories that you want to tell?

This workshop creates a safe, supportive space for you to explore meaningful personal stories through creative prompts and gentle guidance. Whether you consider yourself a “writer” or not, you’re welcome here. This work is about capturing what matters to you, writing for an audience of one: yourself.

Stories from the Heart is designed for anyone who wants to remember, reflect, and honor the wisdom held in their personal narratives. Through writing prompts, poetry, and thoughtful exercises, you’ll be invited to write about what’s on your mind and in your heart.

Course Intentions - In this workshop, you will:

• Recognize your voice and the value of your stories

• Honor and receive your own wisdom

• Discover the benefits of expressing yourself through writing

• Create in an open and safe environment

• Write from a deeper, more authentic place

• Connect more deeply with yourself and others

• Develop sustainable writing practices that fit your life

Guiding Philosophy

We are all writers. In the words of Pat Schneider, founder of Amherst Writers & Artists, whenever we talk with each other, we are “writing stories on the air.” If you think, you write-even if it’s not yet on the page.

Our stories shape who we are, and we all carry wisdom. When we tap into our stories and get clear on them, they can inform how we choose to live. Writing is remembering and honoring that wisdom.

This workshop emphasizes accessibility over perfection. You don’t need to be a “writer” to participate. You simply need to be willing to sit with yourself, pen to paper, and see what emerges.

What to Expect

• Warm, inclusive atmosphere welcoming all levels

• Poetry and literary prompts to inspire your writing

• Sentence completion exercises and creative invitations

• Optional sharing in a supportive, non-judgmental space

• Focus on personal expression over technical perfection

 
This workshop is led by Heidi Gessner, author of Pockets of Grace: Lessons from Darkness, Lessons from Light, and former palliative care chaplain at UNC Hospitals. Heidi created and co-led Writing for Resilience, a weekly reflective writing group for patients, caregivers, and staff, where she witnessed lives change, dreams take shape, and healing begin through writing.

Scholarships are available.  All supplies included.  Adults ages 18 and up.