She has helped organize a flash mob. She has helped organize a funeral for a tree. She has helped groups of leaders, mentors, government workers, and many others find deeper value in sharing their own stories. She has helped countless individuals learn from taking a risk and doing things that had never been done before.
What is the essence of your job?
What I do, and teach others to do, is help people communicate better or become a stronger part of a team. My role is to bring opposing sides together when they’ve been going crazy over some challenging crisis with complex issues. I help them show heart and use real words. I help them see value and know that their opinions have been heard. Then they make difficult decisions and gain deep satisfaction by being part of a positive change.
What are some rewards of your work?
By being a good listener and helping others build trusting relationships, I have earned respect and a good reputation. I get to champion projects which I personally support.
Do you think Tallahassee is a great travel destination?
Yes! Tallahassee is absolutely the prettiest slice of heaven. The many waterways for kayaking, the parks and canopy roads for greenery. It is a wonderful area for families and for retirement; I highly recommend viewing the website ChooseTallahassee.com for tons of helpful information.
Any other places you have been or that are on your bucket list?
Epinal, France was a great experience. So were Italy and Ireland. Also, my family and I attended an unusual New Year’s Even event in North Carolina called the Possum Drop in which a possum in a plexiglass cage was lowered at midnight. The trip at the top of my bucket list is a Viking river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.
What other fun activities do you enjoy?
My family and I love exploring and having adventures. We have snorkeled with manatees, made peach ice cream, and had epic sing-alongs in the car. We are very blessed to enjoy family card games, board games, and playing piano. I have fallen in love with pickleball, which is a fun and competitive sport a bit like tennis. I am fairly competitive, not for the win, but for the natural high and the thrill.
What makes you an exuberant person?
I am an optimist with an open heart. I am the happy, and perhaps slightly naïve, woman who will whistle while walking through a cemetery. I avoid using bad language because it just is not necessary. I learn something from every good challenge, and I know without a doubt that tomorrow will always be better.
What is your positive message for the world?
God’s got this! You and I have got this! Please try to take a deep breath because things will improve, and we will be okay.
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Michelle Bono is quite an inspiring lady. Please share YOUR comments about this interview because, dang y’all, this is truly a time when caring means sharing. Thank you!
