Sometimes it is difficult to share the experiences we have had with friends and family who may have never done anything similar. It is important to share what you witnessed with those closest to you. Here are some ideas on how to begin:

• Be genuine. Be true to your ideals and your experience.
• Reflect on where your listener is coming from. Ask yourself: “Has this person ever had an experience like I have before? What is my relationship with this person?”
• Ask yourself: Are my parents/friends/coworkers ready to hear what I have to say? Don’t judge!
• Be prepared that some people will need you to tell them the essence of your story in just a few minutes.
• Focus on people you met, not statistics.
• Do not take negative reactions or inattentiveness as a judgement of your experience. You know the true worth of what you have lived!
• Understand that no one can validate or legitimate your experience—that is your responsibility.
• Don’t forget what you have seen and where you have come from. Remember the importance of sharing the stories that are now a part of who you are.

Adapted from the St. Vincent Pallotti Center