4 Things You Can Learn about Storytelling from The Boss
4 Things You Can Learn about Storytelling from The Boss
This morning, I received a text from my friend, Christy: “Are you going to see The Boss this week?”
More than ten years ago, Christy and I went to one of the most memorable concerts I’ve ever been to. As I wrote back then, “Bruce Springsteen…was three hours and 15 minutes of pure awesomeness. He could definitely have a second career as a Pentecostal, social justice-loving United Methodist preacher.”
At a moment’s notice, I still bask in the glow of that concert.
It now costs upwards of $350 (or more) to see The Boss in concert. So, forgive me if I sit this one out. For now, I’ll keep my memories intact of that incredible night ten years ago and listen to Born to Run.
In honor of that concert – here is a repeat of one of my first blog posts from November 28, 2012:
Tonight, I am going to see “The Boss.” Yes, I know, as the bumper sticker tells me, “My boss is a Jewish Carpenter.” But tonight, I am going to see THE Boss – Bruce Springsteen.
It’s been on my bucket list for years and I stood, all by myself, for two hours at the local Safeway to score tickets (I clearly did not get the memo that Springsteen fans sleep in). Those Safeway people sure are perky at 8am!
Bruce, and I can call him Bruce because we are great friends, is known as the consummate storyteller through song.
What can you learn about telling your church’s story from The Boss?
Be authentic. Bruce sings about what he knows, where’s he’s come from, and his experiences. Even if you don’t agree with his politics, after hearing him you don’t ever question his integrity.
Be passionate. Springsteen’s voice oozes with grit and passion. You know he believes deeply, you can hear the angst, fervor, hurt, and love in his voice and through his lyrics.
Be energetic. The Boss’ concerts are legendary events. Here’s a 63-year-old guy [new addition: for heaven’s sakes, he’s now 73!] who can still rock the hall for over three hours. May we all be so full of life.
Be relevant. Bruce has been at this for over three decades. He could have hung up his guitar years ago and been satisfied with landing in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999. But, he had more to say and new generations to influence. Let’s hope the church still feels the same.
Want more ideas on storytelling?
Grab the Bull by the Horns: 5 Ways to Do It
The Power of Photographs: Making Your Print Materials Stand Out
3 (Really!) Easy Ways to Tell Your Story
Your Field Trip to Fabulous Stories
Photo credit: TKyono@flickr.com
Cesie Delve Scheuermann (pronounced “CC Delv Sherman,” yes, really) is a Stewardship Consultant for the OR-ID Annual Conference. She is also a Senior Ministry Strategist with Horizons Stewardship. For 25 years, while working as a volunteer and part-time consultant, she has helped raise over three million dollars for numerous churches and non-profit organizations. Here’s her favorite Springsteen song, the post-9-11, Mary’s Place.
You can reach Cesie at inspiringgenerosity@gmail.com or on Facebook or at CesieScheuermann.com and one more…cesieds@horizons.net.
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