Guided Storytelling Script

Hello everyone, and welcome to today’s session on storytelling as healing. Today, we are going to use the power of our own stories to explore our feelings, build empathy, and find ways to heal. I’ll be guiding you through this process step-by-step, so please feel free to share only what you are comfortable with.

Introduction

"Good morning/afternoon class. Today, we are going to explore how our personal stories can help us understand our feelings and even heal emotional wounds. When we tell our story, we’re not just sharing words—we’re sharing our experiences, which can be very powerful and transformative."

(I pause and look around the room for engagement.)

"Before we begin, I’d like us to take a moment to breathe deeply together. Inhale slowly…and exhale. Let’s do that a couple more times to create a calm space for our thoughts."

"Now, I'd like to share a short personal story with you. When I was younger, I faced a challenge that at times felt overwhelming. But by writing about my experience and sharing it with someone I trusted, I was able to see things in a new light. This is what I want for each of you today—finding clarity and comfort through your own unique story."

Guided Narrative Writing

"I’m now going to distribute the Personal Narrative Journal Template. This template is here to help guide your thoughts and structure your narrative as you write about a personal experience or emotion that you’d like to explore."

"As you begin writing, think of a moment that felt challenging or transformative in your life. It can be something recent or from the past—a moment when you felt strong emotions. Remember, this is a safe space: only share what you’re comfortable with, and everything we discuss remains within these walls."

"I will read aloud some prompts to assist you along the way. Feel free to pause and reflect on each prompt before writing down your thoughts."

• "Describe a moment when you felt deeply moved by an experience. What were the feelings involved?"
• "Reflect on what this experience taught you about yourself or your relationships with others."
• "If you were to share this experience with someone who needed help understanding similar feelings, what would you want to emphasize?"

"I will now give you about 25 minutes to write your narrative. If you feel comfortable and inspired, please use the quiet time to get started, keeping in mind that the pen is a tool for healing. I’ll walk around if you need any guidance."

(Teacher pauses and gives written time explanation.)

Group Sharing & Empathy Building

"Now that we have spent some time writing, I invite any of you who feel comfortable to share a part of your narrative with the class. Please remember, we are here to support and listen to each other without judgment. Let’s focus on understanding and building empathy through our shared experiences."

(Teacher listens attentively and provides supportive prompts such as:)

• "Thank you for sharing that. Can you tell us what it felt like to write about that experience?"
• "What do you think someone else might learn from your story?"
• "Does anyone notice common themes or feelings that are shared among us?"

"Please remember to speak one at a time and offer your peers encouraging feedback."

Reflection & Closing

"As we come to the end of our session, I would like us to take a few moments for reflection. Consider these questions quietly in your journal:

• How did writing your story make you feel?
  
• What did you learn about yourself today?
  
• How might you use writing as a tool for healing in the future?

"In our next class, we can revisit these reflections if you’d like, and understand how your narratives continue to evolve over time."

"Thank you for your openness and courage today. I truly appreciate the trust you’ve placed in each other by sharing your experiences. Remember, your story matters, and I encourage you to keep writing and reflecting beyond this classroom."

"Have a peaceful day, and remember, every step you take on your journey is important."

Personal Narrative Journal Template

This journal template is designed to help you craft your personal narrative. Reflect on your thoughts and emotions as you work through each section, and use the space provided to express your feelings and insights fully.

Section 1: The Moment of Impact

Think of a moment in your life that had a deep emotional impact on you. It could be a moment of challenge, transformation, or realization.

• Describe the event or experience:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

• What emotions did you feel during this moment? Consider both immediate and lingering emotions.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Section 2: Lessons Learned

Reflect on what you learned from this experience. How did it change your perspective on life or on yourself?

• What did you learn about yourself?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

• How has this experience influenced your relationships or outlook on life?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Section 3: Sharing Your Experience

Imagine you are sharing this experience with someone who might be going through a similar situation. Think about the parts of your story that could offer comfort, insight, or guidance.

• What part of your story would you highlight to provide support or advice?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

• What advice or insight would you offer based on your experience?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Section 4: Reflection and Healing

Consider how writing about this experience has helped you understand and process your emotions. Use this space for reflection.

• How did writing your story make you feel?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

• In what ways might continuing to write help you on your path to healing?
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Take your time and be honest with yourself as you work through these prompts. Your narrative is a valuable expression of your unique experience and journey.