Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Stories Matter, Yours Especially

I have a passion for writing and believe that everyone has a story to tell. Multiple stories, actually. Rather than telling mine in 500-page tomes, I find it easiest to tell them in shorter books (Mothering with Spiritual Power: Book of Mormon Inspirations for Raising a Righteous Family and It's Okay to Take a Nap), and numerous newspaper and magazine articles online and in print.

I took some time off from writing freelance and nonfiction books over the last few years in favor of writing a novel that has yet to find a publishing house (I am still hopeful), but I am back to writing nonfiction more regularly and loving it. Here's a couple of newspaper guest columns I wrote recently: 

The first is a guest column I wrote about how books and libraries can dramatically impact our families' lives for the better. They sure have made a positive difference for my family, leading, I believe, to college scholarships for my children. Click HERE to see the article. Once you've read it, I'd love to hear your thoughts on the subject of books and libraries. What stories did you enjoy as a child? What picture or chapter books do you love sharing with your children? What novels are your favorites? 

The second is an article I wrote about how my husband and I spent our fall break dressed in pioneer-style clothing and trekked with our church's youth as the Mormon pioneers did in the 1800s. What a powerful, meaningful and fun experience that was despite the dirt and grime and fatigue. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. My husband would as well, albeit with a better pair of shoes. He was such a sport when his shoes came apart, and they taped them back together with lime green duct tape. Click HERE to read the article. If you're interested, I'd love to hear your stories of similar treks.

If you are reticent to write your own stories, whether about your life or the life of your imagination, I would encourage you to go for it. Your stories matter. And the rest of us would benefit from the telling. Looking forward to hearing what you have to say.