Some Obvious Questions

Lighting a Lantern means stating a forum whose form is so diverse that calling them 'forums' doesn't quite cover their full utility. There are so many technological tools at our disposal that this website can take on many different useful forms beyond the traditional pure discussion format. These forums, for lack of a better word, are just a creative way of starting a project on a particular subject pertaining to the circle of your choosing. That circle may be drawn around an elder or an interest. For example, perhaps you would like to highlight your grandfather by telling a story about him through visual or written means. You would start a forum by uploading your work and commenting on it encouraging others to share what they may contribute to his legacy also– in whatever manner they may choose to do so. The ultimate end of the forum is action, not intellectual discussion. Encourage everyone to participate and then perhaps set a goal to present this information at a family reunion in an artful way. Find ways to make your forums actionable.

Many people do not have social media profiles because of the incredibly negative trend social media has taken as of late. This is a much safer way for people to contribute– OR EVEN ANONYMOUSLY. Moderators will of course keep everything positive, however, each forum creator has the ability to moderate their own forums independently.  

People need a reason to reach out to one another. We are often asked what we want from someone when attempting to form a bond with them. This website is a creative answer to the question: why care about any estranged relationship? Why not just let nature takes its course? Well, there's nothing natural about modern society. Modern intellect questions the most basic things we used to take for granted as we have become obsessed with freedom of choice. We used to not be able to choose our family, but now we have to choose to keep them in our lives lest modern life pull them away. With freedom comes responsibility and choosing family first is an action, not an intellectual discussion. 

“Between what is said and not meant, and what is meant and not said, most of love is lost.” - Khalil Gibran

Art has a powerful ability to transmit the values that society and culture cannot explicitly state. The power to cut through age hardened apathy, resentment and ignorance to speak to the deep implicit nature of intellectual punchlines like love, compassion, and family. How about sharing what moves you with your own family and friends thus honoring them in a wholesome way? What could be more withstanding, true, cathartic and ultimately in line with the way our ancestors created their works of art?  Together, with the proper inspiration, perhaps the sky is the limit for our own artistic endeavors, and our God given ability to impact others. 

1. Centralized Communication Platform: A forum can serve as a central hub for family news, updates, and announcements. This is particularly useful for large families spread across different locations.
2. Memory Sharing and Preservation: The forum could feature a section for sharing old photos, stories, and memories, which can be a powerful way to reconnect with each other's pasts and understand family history.
3. Event Planning and Coordination: It can be used to organize family events, such as reunions, birthdays, or anniversaries, making the planning process more inclusive and collaborative.
4. Building a Family Tree: An interactive family tree can engage members, especially younger ones, in learning about their ancestry and heritage.
5. Discussion Forums: Having a space for discussions on various topics can encourage family members to share their thoughts, opinions, and experiences, fostering a sense of community.
6. Support and Resource Sharing: The forum can be a platform for family members to offer support to each other, be it through advice, sharing resources, or providing emotional support during tough times.
7. Celebrating Achievements: A section dedicated to celebrating personal achievements (like graduations, new jobs, etc.) can help in building a positive atmosphere.
8. Inclusivity for All Ages: By having a mix of content and features, the website can cater to family members of all ages, making it a place for everyone.
9. Privacy and Control: Unlike social media, a family website can be private and more controlled, which might appeal to those who are hesitant about public platforms.
10. Ease of Use and Accessibility: With technology becoming more user-friendly, even those who are not tech-savvy can participate.
11. Cultural and Educational Content: Sections for sharing cultural recipes, traditions, or educational resources can help in preserving and passing down important family legacies.
12. Regular Updates and Newsletters: Having a regular newsletter or blog can keep the family updated and encourage regular visits to the site.
13. Encouraging Collaboration: Different family members can take turns managing parts of the website, fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration.
14. Overcoming Physical Distance: For families that are geographically dispersed, the website can be a virtual meeting place.
15. Special Projects and Collaborations: The site can host family projects like compiling a recipe book, family history book, or planning a large family event.