Thomas shared his stories on Daily Inspired Life:
Let Your Smile Change the World | Story about finding courage after incredible loss | Inspiring Story #85
After sharing his story on Daily Inspired Life, Thomas Cowen was deeply moved by the response from readers. The story not only helped people remember and honour his son, but also inspired donations towards a charity connected to their journey.
Through the experience, Thomas reflected on the emotional power of storytelling and the way honest stories can move people to feel, connect, and take action.
In this interview, Thomas shares what happened after his story was published and why he believes everyone has a story worth telling.
About the Storyteller
Born and raised in New York City, Tom Cowen, currently lives in the beautiful New England town of Ridgefield, CT.
He is an above-average sales engineer, retired amateur boxer, and barely serviceable hockey player. He runs Justin's Smile Childhood Cancer Foundation with his family.
His work has been published in The Good Men Project. While studying for the Newport MFA at Salve Regina University he is working on his memoir about courage and his incredibly brave son, Justin.
This is what happened when Tom shared his story ...
What Happened After Sharing His Story
How Did It Make You Feel When You Were First Invited To Share Your Story?
I was thrilled. Any time an editor sees enough in your story to publish it, it's a big thrill. You know that your story has resonated with the editor and their publication's purpose and readership.
Describe any personal benefits sharing your story has brought you:
The feedback has been tremendous and detailed. It's given me a big emotional uplift as people remember my son. We also raised money for our charity prompted by people reading the essay.
What was the greatest challenge you had sharing your story?
Writing is hard, but battling cancer is a lot harder. I just push myself through it.
Were you helped in any way by the process the DIL team used to help you develop your story?
Yes. I was helped to make more of the story about my son and gave it a turn which made it more inspirational for others.
Did sharing your story, help you understand yourself more deeply?
Writing continues to help me understand myself and others.
Did you enjoy the response you received from others in relation to your story? How So?
Yes, very much so. The detailed response from your readers were more than I have received from another site. They seem very involved with DIL. Unfortunately, some said they cried from reading it. I hate to make people cry, but knew it evoked true emotions.
Did sharing your story have an impact on others in anyway?
We will see in the long term. A former work colleague who made a significant donation, mentioned that it reminded him he had to do his part this year for others less fortunate.
Would you recommend others share their story?
Yes, absolutely. Every one has a story to tell.
Anything else?
Don't be afraid, just submit it.
Many people who share their story experience a similar shift.
Discover the incredible journey of sharing your own story!
Just like those who've already shared their story, you'll find that sharing your story brings personal growth, connection, a supportive community, and opportunities you never imagined.
Whether you're ready to pour your heart out, want to take a guided workshop, or looking to navigate your own storytelling adventure with our free guide, it all starts right here.
Your story has the power to not only inspire others, you'll unearth profound personal wisdom, and open up meaningful opportunities in your life. Embrace this opportunity today, and let's begin your unique narrative together.
Click a button below to begin your journey ...
No spam. Just meaningful stories and inspiration.
