Every Story Matters: Share Yours.

**By Sheryl Lilly Pidgeon | Publisher, Good Life Family Magazine**

I have a passion for captivating narratives that play out on the cinema screen. I analyze the characters and often find myself contemplating how I would be depicted in a film. It’s not about who would portray me, but rather **what is my role?** How do others perceive me? **How will I be remembered?** This includes not just my family, but also friends, colleagues, my community, fellow philanthropists, and perhaps even those whose lives I’ve impacted, albeit unintentionally.

To clarify, I don’t mean to imply that I’m significant enough to merit a film portrayal. This is an exercise in self-reflection. Am I living in a way that aligns with how I wish to be remembered? What kind of legacy do I leave behind?

In his book **What Will They Say About You When You’re Gone?: Creating a Life of Legacy**, Rabbi Daniel Cohen compellingly recounts how the unexpected death of his mother at 44 years old redirected his life path. He imparts valuable insights on confronting our own mortality and encourages us to embrace life with urgency and passion. Cohen, an Orthodox rabbi, emphasizes that irrespective of our beliefs, we all harbor a fundamental yearning for a meaningful existence.

Much like many parents, I find immense meaning in being a mother. Indeed, I consider it a privilege to play a leading role in my children’s lives. However, my narrative doesn’t conclude there. I aspire to have played a supportive part in the lives of others, just as many have done for me.

Numerous individuals have shaped the narrative of my life, often without realizing the extent of their influence. For instance, my childhood friend who passed away in seventh grade after battling leukemia inspired me with her resilience and positivity; my first-grade teacher who helped a painfully shy me build self-confidence; my high school history teacher who understood my senior burnout wasn’t indicative of my future success and gave me a passing grade; my first boss, a former model, who valued my marketing skills while teaching me how to dress effectively; and my Aunt Marilyn, like a second mother, whose complex life was brightened by her Joan Rivers-style humor, showing me that laughter helps us discover the silver lining in tough times.

I could go on extensively, as many of us can. In numerous ways, I do so through **Good Life Family**. The publication has given me the **opportunity** to share uplifting stories that inspire and motivate readers to seek deeper fulfillment, take risks, and pursue their passions in life.

Ultimately, this is my motivation for publishing **Good Life Family**. I want us all to continue the conversation, to engage deeply, and to share stories of inspiration, encouragement, and growth.

Though we may be a small publication, our commitment is immense. Our dedicated team works diligently to produce a product we take pride in providing. Financial gain isn’t our goal; the true wealth lies in knowing that our efforts are meaningful. It is both an honor and privilege to deliver goodLIFEfamilymag.com and **Good Life Family Weekly** to our readers.

For us, this truly is a labor of love. We hope your life—**your story**—is abundant, fulfilling, and joyful. We aspire to contribute to making it **better** in some way.

To our **GLF** advertising partners, we express our gratitude for joining us on this journey. We acknowledge that larger platforms exist for reaching your target audience, yet we assure you that no one is more devoted to narrating your story. Advertise with us, become a sponsor, write for us. Spread the word about us. Let’s keep the dialogue alive.

Live. Learn. Laugh. **(Let’s Talk!)** Repeat.

– Sheryl Lilly Pidgeon

*This article was originally published in 2023*