Last Friday, many people around the country participated in the Annual National Day of Listening - an event that reminded commentator Kerstin Lange of her father, and stories he used to tell.

The combination of Thanksgiving dinner and the National Day of Listening reminded writer and commentator Annie Lawrence Guyon of a family story that resonates for her - throughout the holidays.

Inspired by last Friday's National Day of Listening, commentator Jay Craven has been thinking about the importance of narrative in our national identity.

The National Day of Listening is a new national holiday started by StoryCorps in 2008. On the day after Thanksgiving, StoryCorps asks all Americans to take an hour to record an interview with a loved one, using recording equipment that is readily available in most homes, such as computers, iPhones, and tape recorders.

To help get us into the spirit of the Annual National Day of Listening, commentator Bill Schubart has one of his favorite well-told tales - about the time his great Aunt Rose came to visit.

Tomorrow is the National Day of Listening and commentator Anne Averyt is thinking about new stories. In the old song, the horse knew the way to carry the sleigh home for the holidays - but in the 21st century, "home" is more elusive. 

Anticipating tomorrow's Annual National Day of Listening, commentator Stephanie Greene tells a favorite family story about a very big event in a very small town.

This Friday is the Annual National Day of Listening. As part of this effort, commentator Willem Lange tells a favorite story about an old-timer and a spectacular case of hero worship.

In anticipation of the Annual National Day of Listening this Friday, commentator and Vermont Humanities Council executive director Peter Gilbert retells a story that he thinks should not be forgotten - especially around Thanksgiving. 

In anticipation of the Annual National Day of Listening this Friday, commentator Henry Homeyer observes that our Thanksgiving dinner is based on a story - in which many details are probably not accurate.

On the day after Thanksgiving, many people around the country participate in the Annual National Day of Listening. As part of this effort, commentator Kathryn Blume tells a family story in which a pop culture icon makes a potent appearance.

In the spirit of the Annual National Day of Listening, Bill Mares shares this VPR Commentary on General William Lyman Shepard.

As part of StoryCorps' Annual National Day of Listening, VPR commentator Vic Henningsen reflects on the importance of listening in our own lives.