In this conversation, Josh and Chris discuss the importance of authenticity in storytelling, particularly Chris' relationship with deceased partner Richard and their journey through terminal illness.
Throughout the episode, Chris reflects on the emotional complexities of revisiting memories while working on a film adaptation of their story.
The discussion also touches on the broader implications of personal narratives in fostering empathy and societal change, emphasizing love and commitment as universal themes.
Quote Chris referenced in the new title of the film
"She had studied the universe all her life, but had overlooked its clearest message: For small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love." Carl Sagan, Contact
Takeaways
Authenticity is crucial in storytelling.
Cancer serves as the antagonist in their narrative.
Revisiting memories can be emotionally challenging.
Patience is essential in the creative process.
Personal stories can resonate with a wider audience.
Story sharing can provide comfort and connection.
Love and commitment transcend societal boundaries.
The project is a significant part of Chris's life.
The importance of kindness in society is emphasized.
Awareness of societal issues can foster change.
Chapters
00:00 The Essence of Authenticity in Storytelling
03:03 Navigating Mixed Emotions in Remembrance
06:10 The Symbolism of Personal Stories
12:00 The Call for Compassion and Change
To learn more about the My Green Folder Film project visit: https://mygreenfolderfilm.com/
Email Josh and Chris at: [email protected]
A gay senior, Christopher MacLellan, and an ally, Josh Wilson, are podcasting about life, love, liberty, and travel.
AGING GAYFULLY® is about living life with dignity in an age-friendly society, regardless of orientation or economic status, because longevity is a justice issue.
AGING GAYFULLY® is about finding your voice as we age. We are all part of the aging process and have real connections in diversity.
AGINGGAYFULLY® is a modern type of activism that supports the concept of belonging.
AGINGGAYFULLY® is about Adventure, Leisure, Travel, being a citizen of the world, traveling to destinations, and being part of the global community as we age and prosper in body, mind, and spirit.
AgingGayfully™
In essence, AgingGayfully™ is a lifestyle; it's a mindset! Happy, Carefree, Cheerful, and Lighthearted, just as Webster defined the word "Gay" in the '30s, '40s, and '50s.
The play on words here is while Chris identifies as a gay senior, everyone wants to age gayfully because everyone wants happiness, to live as carefree as possible, to be cheerful, and to age without worry.
AgingGayfully™ is about finding allies like Josh Wilson, who understands what is is like to be a citizen of the world, supporting everyone in care.
AgingGayfully™ is about navigating transitions... "Setting Sail" into new seasons of life:
- After Leaving a Job... retirement
- After a Loss... when life transitions
- Starting a New Relationship
- Exploring Your Dreams
- Not Postponing Happiness
- Identifying and Living Your Passions
- Stepping Into Your Comfort Zone
You may not know how to set sail, but AgingGayfully™ can help you with these transitions because contentment is possible as we age. Retirement can lead us on a road that offers several paths to a healthy and happy future. Navigating life's transitions in later life affords us many possibilities for sustaining fulfillment as we age gayfully.
AgingGayfully™ is about living life with dignity in an age-friendly society regardless of orientation or economic status because longevity is a justice issue.
AgingGayfully™ is about finding your voice as we age. We are all part of the aging process and have real connections in diversity.
AgingGayfully™ is a modern type of activism that supports the concept of belonging.
AgingGayfully™ is about Adventure, Leisure, Travel, being a citizen of the world, traveling to destinations, and being part of the global community as we age and prosper in body, mind, and spirit.
You might know me as '"The Bow Tie Guy".
I've taken off my bowtie and Setting Sail to new horizons while AgingGayfully™.
AgingGayfully™ is the second chapter of my story about creating a life to love after caregiving ends.
AgingGayfully™ is about living life with dignity in an age-friendly society regardless of orientation or economic status because longevity is a justice issue.
AgingGayfully™ is about finding your voice as we age. We are all part of the aging process and have real connections in diversity.
AgingGayfully™ is a modern type of activism that supports the concept of belonging.
AgingGayfully™ is about taking "My Green Folder" on the road and living life to the fullest via, travel, leisure, and adventure!
Don't Say Gay?...Say AgingGayfully™
Josh Wilson - The Ally
Josh Wilson is a painter, designer, musician, writer, and podcaster. He has also worked in the not-for-profit sphere for over 20 years and has a passion for helping people. He is also the father of 4, so he has a deep appreciation for the madcap absurdity that we call life here on earth.
Fun fact about Josh: a portrait he painted is owned by the mother of the hip-hop artist Drake, and this portrait has been viewed over 1.5 billion times in Drake’s “God’s Plan” music video.