Writer Learns from 'Doing Over' Past Embarrassments
Robin Hemley's project taught him that you can change your view of the past
Many people fantasize about being able to go back and redo something from the past, but one writing professor actually chose to act on this "do-over" dream.
Robin Hemley, director of the University of Iowa Nonfiction Writing Program, decided to revisit what he describes as the "embarrassments and failures" of his youth to see if there was anything he could learn from the experience.
At age 48, Hemley decided to go back to kindergarten, join a fraternity, take a standardized test and invite the girl of his teenage dreams to the prom.
He said the incidents he chose to do over weren't traumatic, but simply "the small regrets that stick with us or cause a twinge in the middle of the night."
Hemley chronicles his experiences and the resulting personal growth in a new book, Do-Over!. He explained that the project helped him realize any bad feelings about the past can be overcome.
"I learned that while it's not possible to change the past, it is possible to change the way you think about the past," he explained.
Hemley also said he has learned more about being a parent, particularly the importance of listening to his daughters' concerns and not taking them lightly.
Sarah Beldo is a journalist in San Francisco
Celebrate the holiday season with a FREE copy of
Daily Guideposts when you subscribe
to Guideposts Magazine,
and make 2010 your year of inspiration!
Contests
Enter for a chance to win these inspiring prizes. Good luck!
• Let There Be Laughter Book Giveaway
• Lift Your Spirit Book Giveaway
Be part of Guideposts
We are a nonprofit company that searches far and wide to find, create and distribute the best inspirational stories that help you, your friends and family live a more positive, faith-filled life.
Help us with our mission:
— it might inspire someone else!
— Help us in our search. Millions of people like you rely on us!
Comments
Please login in order to post your comments.