'Dreaming CIMA' with Autofiction Author René Urbanovich

PLEASE Help FUND Season 3—Time is of the essence and no amount is too small! Contribute HERE: https://throne.com/language_of_the_soulWhat makes a writer? For René Urbanovich, it's an undeniable drive—the recognition that there's something harder than writing: not writing. In this profound conversation, René takes us deep into the heart of her literary auto-fiction memoir "Dreaming Cima and the Abandoned Mind," revealing how becoming a grandmother sparked an urgent need to document her family's extraordinary legacy.Against the backdrop of the Mojave Desert's shifting sands, René uncovers a century-spanning narrative about the Ray family—miners, homesteaders, and survivors whose dreams were both nurtured and challenged by the unforgiving landscape they called home. The Cima Cinder Mine, staked in 1948, becomes more than just a setting; it transforms into a powerful metaphor for mining memories and the meaning they hold for us, across generations.What began as a simple mining operation became famous for something unexpected: the Mojave Phone Booth. This isolated connection to the outside world drew visitors from across the globe—and ultimately, unwanted government attention that led to the mine's seizure. "The one thing that brought them fame is the one thing that destroyed them," René reflects, highlighting the tragic irony that couldn't be scripted more perfectly.Beyond the historical narrative lies a deeply personal exploration of caregiving across generations. René candidly shares her experience as a member of the "sandwich generation," simultaneously caring for her mother with dementia while helping raise grandchildren. She contrasts her struggles with her grandmother's seemingly effortless devotion to family, revealing how societal expectations have shifted while fundamental human challenges remain.As physical landmarks disappear—childhood homes demolished, hotels and aqueduct way stations burned, Joshua forests destroyed—and memories fade with cognitive decline, René confronts the central question: What remains when everything is lost? The answer emerges through beautifully crafted vignettes that reveal how legacy isn't measured by achievement, but by what we endure and hand forward—a legacy of love that transcends time. And...devastating loss. We would love to hear from you! Send US a text message. LOTS One-time DonationYour donation, however big or small, will help us build our platform. Click Here to Donate!PatreonAs a patron, you're joining a community of like-minded individuals passionate about the stories.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showTo learn more and order Dominick's book Language of the Soul visit www.dominickdomingo.com/theseekerNow more than ever, it’s tempting to throw our hands in the air and surrender to futility in the face of global strife. Storytellers know we must renew hope daily. We are being called upon to embrace our interconnectivity, transform paradigms, and trust the ripple effect will play its part. In the words of Lion King producer Don Hahn (Episode 8), “Telling stories is one of the most important professions out there right now.” We here at Language of the Soul Podcast could not agree more.This podcast is a labor of love. You can help us spread the word about the power of story to transform. Your donation, however big or small, will help us build our platform and thereby get the word out. Together, we can change the world…one heart at a time!Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests and do not reflect the official policy or position of any counseling practice, employer, educational institution, or professional affiliation. The podcast is intended for discussion and general educational purposes only.