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Post by maribeth on Sept 28, 2015 1:16:02 GMT
Hi.
I have what I think is a sensitive question to ask. Backround - may family is not very close, and has been somewhat dysfunctional through the years. I am going to see my sister who is 8 years older than I am (I am 55). She finished raising my two boys when I was unable to do so (they were 11 and 14 when then went to live with my sister). She has has some recent heath issues. We have had a "freindly" relationship through the years. I want to leave "heritage" information for my sons children or their children should any of them be interested (my sister has no children, but is close with one son and his children). I want to ask her some "deep" questions in order to document who she is, and her thoughts on our family, because she played such an important role in my sons up-bringing, but due to her recent health issues, what do you think is appropriate, and what questions do you think are important to ask.
All of your expertise is invaluable, and tremendously appreciated.
Maribeth
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dald222
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,602
Jun 27, 2014 0:50:15 GMT
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Post by dald222 on Sept 28, 2015 13:05:03 GMT
I think it is a very good idea  I do not think she will mind... especially if you put it in the words how she played such an important role in their lives. How you were unable to & how you appreciated the gift she did. I have had a number of family members became ill. They were always glad to talk about their lives & memories & ancestral info too. I imagine your dear sister will feel the same way when you ask her. Do not be afraid to talk to her.
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Post by mikklynn on Sept 28, 2015 13:16:41 GMT
I agree with dald222 - ask her the way you phrased it in your post. Then, I'd follow her lead. If she seems comfortable, keep going. If not, maybe ask a simpler question about her childhood and see how it goes. I think it's a great idea!
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Post by scrapcat on Sept 28, 2015 15:34:10 GMT
I've been working on an ancestry project for a while and I tend to be as open ended with questions as possible. I find with older relatives (in their 80s) just asking them to tell a story about someone or share a memory, they will just start talking. I just listen to wherever it leads without asking too much. I find people like to tell their story when given an opportunity and have an active listener. Just in all aspects of life.
It would probably help to let go of your own personal attachment to the story and treat it like you are an outsider looking in. Like an investigative reporter, just trying to get their story.
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loco coco
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 2,662
Jun 26, 2014 16:15:45 GMT
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Post by loco coco on Sept 28, 2015 17:05:58 GMT
Deep questions are good but include some fluff, its fun to talk about and will be fun for them to read later. I would ask what her favorite memories were as a child, did she have any nicknames, favorite subject in school, does she have any talents, etc. Also ask about a favorite memory of your 2 boys.
The kids might look back one day and say "wow she did this or that and so do I" and find a connection they would have never known.
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