280: Little Avalanches with Becky Ellis
My Simplified Life podcast releases two episodes per week featuring authors and changemakers. Every interview reveals life lessons we can embrace and stories of others that build empathy.
In this episode of My Simplified Life, I speak with author Becky Ellis about her memoir, Little Avalanches, which explores the generational impact of war through her own childhood experiences and her father's combat experiences in World War II. The conversation delves into the challenges of understanding and sharing war stories, the importance of empathy, and the need for open conversations about trauma and silence within families. Becky shares insights on how her father's experiences shaped her life and the lives of her children, emphasizing the significance of storytelling in healing and connection.
Little Avalanches quickly became a book close to my heart. It is going to pull on your heart strings in immense ways. My quick synopsis..
As someone who treasures the friendships I have with WWII vets, this book is also a treasure. Far too many do not know the stories of this group of men. Becky’s father Louis is like so many veterans who didn’t want to talk about what they endured, saw, experienced and lived through. Yet, when they share their stories, we are all given a gift to know what they went through.
Thank you Becky for sharing of yourself and your father. I was brought to tears at the end and can see your father in so many of the WWII vets that I know and have known. This is a book filled with meaning and understanding.
What We're Talking About
Becky's memoir intertwines her childhood with her father's war experiences.
Understanding a veteran's story fosters empathy and compassion.
Many veterans struggle to share their experiences due to the burden of trauma.
Conversations about the past can heal family relationships.
Silence in families often perpetuates misunderstanding and pain.
The transition from soldier to civilian can be challenging and complex.
Empathy is crucial in understanding the impact of war on families.
Sharing stories can bridge the gap between generations.
Acknowledging a veteran's sacrifice is more meaningful than just saying thank you.
Open conversations about trauma can lead to healing and connection.
