Doctoral Dissertation

At the heart of this manuscript is storytelling. It demonstrates the power of reflective writing for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals. It celebrates the transformation and liberation that comes from sharing those stories. The research enables every queer person to use storytelling and reflective writing to construct their own personal mythology. It was written for every hero and heroine who has ever faced their metaphorical monsters (traumatic experiences and ordeals) and lived to talk about it. It invites the reader to reflect on their lives, find meaning among disparate events, and discover connection through the art of storytelling and reflective writing. The journey takes time and each step along the path can be a gift of insight, courage, and wisdom.