Documentary Update
Last night I called Greg Mellar to discuss questions about his journey in the martial arts. I had another reason for the call. I wanted to know how people felt about a documentary and a memorial service for Benny Allen.
I believe for the most part there are 2 benefits by undertaking this project. The two benefits involve our friends and posterity and the second is nostalgia.
First
The first benefit is I get to write my history for my family. I am a genealogist and so are my sons and daughters. I have learned that when my children and grandchildren know our family history they benefit from that knowledge.
Studies have shown the more children know about their family history , the higher their self-esteem and the better able they are to deal with the effects of stress.
Family stories provide a sense of identity through time and help children understand who they are in the world.
They also learn that they are part of something bigger than themselves.
They learn they are part of a massive world and just one link in the chain.
Second
My second reason for this journey is for nostalgia. I love the mood it creates.
It is positive memories and helps us form a coherent, meaningful story. It reconnects us and makes us more generous. I have seen enthusiasm for a memorial service and the sharing of your time, pictures, books and videos. Lofty ideas for a documentary.
This is not a commercial venture. It is a selfless act of nostalgia. My posterity will benefit and so will your family and friends.
This is but a brief moment of a magical time in our many years.
I will be coming back to Canada in 2026 to do interviews.
I will arrange a memorial service in May.
I will try to put this into an uplifting movie format.
Then I will share it.
It is that simple.
The more who participate the better.
It is a good thing.
I look forward to your support.