WE SHOULD all take a leaf out of Dorothy Isobel Teskey's book.
Not literally, of course, as that would spoil the enjoyment of her first book - Stories of My Life.
In her speech at the launch in Embury Close, Adare, Ms Teskey said: “Never did I ever think I would have Covid to thank for something - because, let's face it, weeks and months of lockdown and worry took its toll on all us - but it gave us all time which in my case - despite being physically apart - brought me closer than ever to my family and will allow those who come after me to get to know me.”
The 87-year-old certainly made good use of her time as not only has she become a first-time author she also learned the guitar and became a Tik Tok sensation with one of her videos viewed over 1.5 million times.
Ms Teskey's family gifted her a subscription to Storyworth which is a service that helps a person tell the story of their life so that it is there for family in the future to read.
“This was originally supposed to be just for family, but suddenly it grew legs and people were asking me for a copy when it was finished!
“And so my granddaughter Karin and I set about it. Once a week I was emailed a question about a point in time in my life which...well you will have to buy the book to find out,” smiled Ms Teskey.
She said when you look back over your life and document it through the years, you start to realise that just like the weather, life has seasons.
“Seasons of happiness and great joy, seasons of sadness and worry, seasons of change, opportunity. Things happen, things don't happen and that's life.
“When I look back I see three things that have been there throughout all the seasons of my life. And those three things are the things I hold most dear - family, friends and faith.”
All profits from the book will go to Limerick Suicide Watch after Ms Teskey heard a talk from Audrey Ellis, of the charity, at an active retirement meeting.
“I listened to what she told us and, like many people, was struck by the scale of the problem they are trying to help with. But even more so, the idea that day in and day out people find themselves at a point where they consider their life not worth living - for whatever reason - really made me think and count my blessings,” said Ms Teskey, who wants to support Limerick Suicide Watch's “incredible work”.
As is befitting a woman of Ms Teskey's sense of humour, there are many funny tales that will have readers doubled over.
One is of her being caught in a bedroom with her then boyfriend, and later husband, Ronald's parents' house in 1953.
“There was no escape, only a tiny window. In those days excommunication for sure. Read the book,” laughed Ms Teskey, who wished to thank a number of people for their help and support.
“Cllr Adam Teskey for giving his time to open this launch and Gerry Moore for the entertainment.
“My family - Karin, Shirley and Jan - who have been a tower of strength to me, encouraging me all the way. Liz Donovan for her knowledge and expertise to stay on the right path
“The management for help preparing the hall and the board of Embury Close for the use of the hall. Last, and by no means least, everyone for coming here and giving me your support,” said Ms Teskey.
Stories Of My Life is on sale in the Heritage Centre and Stacpoole's Retail and Coffee House in Adare.
See our gallery for more pictures from the launch.
