Thank you so much for noticing my sign and taking the time to pull over. I appreciate your offer of money, but that isn’t what I meant by “Need Help.”

Actually, I’m just hoping you can point me in the right direction.

You see, and I hope you don’t mind if I lean my arms on your passenger-side window, I am a freelance writer. That means that I have to come up with some of the stories you want to read in The Tribune all by myself.

That’s a tough gig sometimes since I have three active children and a full-time job at STAR Community Justice Center in Haverhill.

My kids don’t understand if I duck out on them in the evenings to look for stories. They’re kind of selfish that way, you know?

And my boss, Eddie Philabaun, he’s really particular about me actually being at work when I’m supposed to be there. I’m sure you know the type.

Oh, I’m so sorry that you’ve missed the last two lights because of me, but I sure do appreciate that you are listening.

Anyway, where was I? Oh yeah, I’m not your typical beggar. I don’t want money unless you are so disgusted with your wealth that you feel like you have to give it away.

What I am looking for is stories about people from Lawrence County who have done something extraordinary, noteworthy, um, you know, deserving of praise. I know those stories are out there, but I just don’t have the time to look for them.

Can you help me?

Yes, I know you are busy and I’ve taken up too much of your time. But, could you at least take this card and contact me if you think of somebody whose story should be told?

I absolutely love stories that center around perseverance, inspiration and people helping other people.

By the way, I’m really not a stalker and I don’t mind running beside your car as you accelerate to keep talking to you. I understand that you are busy.

You said you’ll give it some thought, right? OK, that’s all I can ask. Just send me an e-mail if you come up with anything.

(Hands on knees/ deep breath).

Have a great day!

Billy Bruce is a freelance writer who lives in Pedro. He can be contacted at hollandkat3@aol.com or by visiting his website, billybruce45.com.