James Birren developed the simple but effective process of Guided Autobiography: each week, including the first week, participants will write and read aloud a two-page story from their life based on a theme (for example, Money, Love). The idea: to help you (and your survivors) see the patterns in your life. First week's assignment (participants will receive a handout from the instructor prior to the start date): the Major Branching Points of Your Life.