It is said that long ago Story, dressed in the richest brocades and finest jewels, came across his brother Naked Truth who was weeping. "Naked Truth, why do you weep so?"
"It's a terrible thing not being wanted! That is why I weep," said Naked Truth. "At first, everyone seems happy to see me, but then, when I speak, they turn their backs or worse...ask me to leave. You see, no one wants to listen to me."
"Oh, now I understand. However, that is easily solved," said Story. "Come with me."
So, Story dressed Naked Truth in colorful folktales, multi-layered legends, sheerest parables and richest fables. Now, whenever Truth started to speak, everyone listened. You see, no one wanted to listen to naked truth, but everyone listened, when it was truth dressed in story. - Adapted from an old Jewish Folktale
Welcome to the Character Education Home Page. In 2008, BASIC Initiative in Belleville, Illinois decided to spearhead a new storytelling festival. Since the heart of BASIC is highlighting and honoring character, founding a festival of stories was a natural fit - truths dressed in story! A committee of community leaders and storytelling artists came together to discuss ideas for the 2009 festival and for its future. Through the generosity of numerous community and arts foundations (see below), the core program became a reality. On March 27, 2009...The Belleville's A Festival of Stories premiered. As part of this initiative, I researched the character traits and added a study guide for each trait on this website.
Bios of Storytellers for the Festival of Stories, 2010.
Character Ed Pages
- The 12 Pillars of Character: Stories and Classroom Activities Related to the Monthly Trait
- Classroom Ideas to Prepare Students for Belleville's A Festival of Stories and Manners Matter!
- Websites and References for Stories and Character Ed
