National Tell a Story Day usually brings with it formal events at libraries and bookstores in which families gather to be entertained. This year, of course, is different but if affords the intriguing possibility of a more personal celebration in which family members swap their own stories on April 27 or anytime. Jean Alfieri, the author of the newly released book Blessed to be Me for adults and Zuggy the Rescue Pug children's books, wants to encourage all of us to tune out the chaos and tune in to their blessings and favorite memories.
According to Alfieri, a previous human resource and organizational development executive turned author, speaker and dog fan, being stuck at home can have its advantages; there is time to reflect and connect. In Blessed to be Me, she provides writing prompts that guide people to recalling the best, worst and weirdest of days, along with how each shaped who they are today.
In an interview, Alfieri, a veteran of local television news programs, can share:
- A few of the book's 12 major and many minor prompts that make storytelling fun and easy
- Why awesome family stories are more powerful than DNA in connecting with one's heritage
- How the real story is not the number of years someone has lived, but the life contained in those years
"It's important, especially in uncertain times like these, to look back on and remember the good times of our lives – the adventures, special people, favorite places, funny moments, and so much more that make up our cherished memories," Alfieri said.
