Pass the Microphone

“Pass the Microphone”
Family Story Sharing Exercise

“Pass the Microphone” is an exercise that can be the centerpiece of a Priceless Legacy “Open Book Gathering.”

Concept:

The Legacy Consultant asks the group a question and then passes the Digital Audio Recorder to each person who answers in a meaningful and personal manner. After the Gathering, the LC will upload the audio file to the Priceless Legacy website where it will be available for listening.

Points to consider:

1. Participation is voluntary
2. Guests may choose not to disclose their names on the recording.
3. Answers should be personal but not too wordy.

Purpose:

1. Icebreaker for guests
2. Put guest in a “thinking about legacy” frame of mind
3. Reinforce importance and universality of the life story preservation mission
4. Make the LC familiar with the Digital Audio Recorder

Process:

1. LC explains ground rules.
a. Recording may be placed on the Internet so they may not want to use their name.
b. Don’t have to answer anything that is uncomfortable.
2. LC asks the first question (and volunteers to “go first”). Speaks into the microphone and then passes it to the next guest. Each guest has an opportunity to answer the question and then the process is repeated. Possible questions are:
a. “One thing I wish I knew about my grandparents is . . .”
b. “I want my children (or grandchildren or nieces and nephews) to remember this about my grandparents or parents . . .”
c. “I am pleased or proud that I have done this to preserve my parents’ or grandparents’ life story . . .” (e.g. genealogy study, scrapbook, photo album, life story book etc.) – Gives LC opportunity to talk about the steps she or he has taken.
d. Ask the group to suggest other questions at this point . . .
3. After the questions and answers have stopped (20-40 minutes) , stop the recorder. Later, upload the audio file to the PLC website for publication per instructions (to be developed).