Stories from the Heart: A Reflective Writing Workshop

Humans are storytellers. We have a powerful, innate desire to express ourselves and have done so since the beginning of time. What is your story?
This class creates a safe, supportive space for you to explore meaningful personal stories through creative prompts and gentle guidance. Together, we’ll explore personal histories – the stories of where you’re from, who you are, and what matters most to you. This is 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 own narrative. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or simply curious about your story, all you need to bring is a pen and an open heart. (Journal included!)

Through writing prompts, poetry, and thoughtful exercises, you’ll be invited to write about what’s on your mind and in your heart — pen to paper, just for you — and you may be surprised by what emerges.

Course Intentions – In this class, 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
• Find the freedom to write without self-judgment
• Write from a deeper, more authentic place
• Connect more deeply with yourself — and, when you’re ready, with 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.
This class 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.
Our stories shape who we are, and we all carry personal wisdom within them. When we tap into those stories, we uncover buried jewels — insights that can inform how we choose to live. Writing is remembering and honoring that wisdom.

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 class is taught by Heidi Gessner, United Church of Christ Minister, author of Pockets of Grace: Lessons from Darkness, Lessons from Light, and former palliative care chaplain at UNC Hospitals, where she created and co-led Writing for Resilience — witnessing lives change and healing begin through the act of writing.