As I’ve asked family members to share the stories they remember from Grandma, I’ve heard many variations of the same sentiment. It can be summed up with the following statements from two different uncles.
“Keep in mind these are my memories from when I was young. They may have morphed in my own mind through the years.”
“I do not mind giving whatever I can but you must remember that memories fade with time, so my answers may not be entirely correct or at least biased in my direction.”
I've come to the conclusion that the way we remember people and events shapes the effect they have on us; and that makes the stories worth writing. While I want to be accurate where I can, I'm more concerned that the stories resonate or ring true. I’m grateful that people trust me with their memories and are willing to risk inaccuracy to help me find what is true.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things.