I need help. Anyone who knows me is rapidly nodding in agreement.

But I’m not talking about my psychological well-being. I’m talking about writing a book about people in Lawrence County, ala “Chicken Soup for the Soul.”

Since I believe that everyone has a great story to tell, I’m asking you to give them to me for print in The Tribune and, later, to be included in a book about our area. This is an opportunity to get that story about your grandfather who fought in World War II or your daughter who overcame cancer in print for all to read.

All I’m asking you to do is start writing and email your story to me (500 words or less, please) at the address listed below.

I’m not averse to taking the traditional route of a phone conversation or home visit to collect these stories, but I would prefer that you do the majority of the writing on your own.

Don’t worry, if you consider yourself to be a keyboard klutz I can help you edit your story before it is printed. But, if possible, I want this to be your story….written by you about the person you deem worthy of your words.

I’m looking for great stories because I know they are out there.

Eventually, I want the best ones to be placed in a format that honors our connected roots.

I have several ideas, mostly supplied by my good friend John Hannon, an Ironton native who has achieved massive success in the broadcast industry, to use these stories for the betterment of our community.

I haven’t worked out the details and am very open to suggestions about the best way to do this.

But the details cannot be worked out without the stories.

Since you are still reading, I know you have one. I know you have someone in mind who has made an impact behind the scenes. I know you have been influenced by someone from our area who deserves to be recognized for their efforts. I know you have a loved one whom you feel should be honored.

A community newspaper exists solely to provide information about its community. And it takes community support to provide this information. Tribune publisher Mike Caldwell has agreed to allow me to use these stories to eventually bind into a book.

And that is something I would love to do. But I need your help.

When you send me a story, please type “Lawrence County” in the subject box to ensure that it is not overlooked.

So, why are you still reading?

Start writing. I can’t wait to read your story!

Billy Bruce is a freelance writer who lives in Pedro. He can be contacted at hollandkat3@aol.com.