MOORESVILLE — It’s taken a decade to compile a lifetime of lessons learned, which author Connie Evans hopes will touch future generations. In her latest book, “Collecting My Thoughts, A Legacy of Learning,” Evans shares the wisdom she has gained over her 81 years.
“This collection of essays has taken 10 years to compile because they are personal, reflective and inspiring,” Evans says.
There are 68 stories in her compilation, complete with reflective questions and space for readers to write in their thoughts after pondering each section.
This wife, mother of three and grandmother of eight has devoted her life to her family, her Catholic faith, her community and to the field of education.
An English teacher originally from Minnesota, Evans has traveled to 42 countries during her lifetime and believes strongly in lifelong learning and volunteerism.
A parishioner of St. Therese Church, Evans feels it is important to pass on her stories, encourage dialogue and promote the Christian values which have shaped her life of service.
She volunteers at her parish and for the past 17 years with Habitat for Humanity. She serves at the Mooresville Soup Kitchen and has also volunteered at her grandchildren’s charter school.
“I have many stories I have been telling my children and grandchildren over the years and they kept saying I needed to write a book, that maybe some of my stories would trigger some thoughts for other families,” Evans explains.
“That is what has happened. All the things I have been talking about in my teaching years and my volunteer years have come forward to touch other people and they can relate to what I have done,” she adds.
Evans says she is trying to “pass on our values because I am 81 and who knows how many times I can tell my stories again and again?”
She insists that the book is not about her, though, but about other families connecting with each other. She believes her book will give other families the chance to tell their stories.
Evans enjoys sharing her stories in person, speaking to a wide variety of local organizations and church groups over the years.
“With a ‘Wheel of Fortune’ theme, I present my 12 values in 30 minutes that are important to parents, teachers and business leaders,” Evans explains.
“Once you’re a teacher, you’re always a teacher. I’m not so much promoting my book, but I am promoting values. That is my attempt at the book. It’s promoting Christian values,” she says.
— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter
For more info
At www.cothoughts.com: Order a copy of Connie Evan’s book, “Collecting My Thoughts, A Legacy of Learning,” or schedule Evans to speak at your church or organization.
Photo courtesy of www.cothoughts.com
Connie Evans, a lifelong educator and now parishioner of St. Therese Church in Mooresville, compiled a collection of 68 stories from her life as a teacher, wife, mother and grandmother, entitling her book “Collecting My Thoughts, A Legacy of Learning.”