And similar to writing our stories, sharing our stories holds the same promise of healing -- and connecting us. . . This process, too, will change you.

Our life-defining stories matter. We need to find them and tell them -- or write them.

Our brains hold the magic that allows us to find our stories and to make and remake our meaning.

Writing is a beautiful way to let out pain. When you put your story out there, you release it. Once it is no longer buried or stuck within you, you are free to move forward.

Our stories are by nature problem-solving tools, and we are problem-solving beings.

When I look back on my personal story through my journals, it struck me my words had an unmatched power to heal me. To change me.