Let me tell you a story

#SitWithUs #TheStoryTrail

The streets and squares of Brighton and Hove are suddenly full of these BookBenches installed by Amaze Sussex as part of their Story Trail - “a free, fun, family-friendly adventure”.

In just a few days I’ve seen these unique, jolly and colourful benches prompt conversations, impromptu story-telling and spontaneous human connection around the city. And they’re also pretty comfortable.

The value of story-telling rings merry bells with me as a celebrant. As part of my training I had the chance to share my story with one of my peers and she turned my ramblings into an insightful narrative. And vice versa - I hope! Quite apart from the technical aspects of this as a training experience, what I remember most powerfully was how moving it was to hear my story being told by someone who knew what she was doing. (You know who you are!) That feeling of being heard and valued was so affirming. And it prompted me to think about familiar material in a new way. As a celebrant the chance to tell a couple’s story as part of a totally bespoke marriage ceremony is one of the joys and privileges of the job.

In the meantime, I’m always up for a sit down and will continue to test out the benches around town.