Birthdays are beginnings. This is a sentiment I have always held particularly close to my heart, if for no other reason than it allows for the momentary illusion of a fresh start, at least for one day. What evolves beyond that point in time is anyone’s guess of course; but the symbolic turning of the page is one that resonates quite deeply for me.
This year’s birthday falls within an interval of time that is especially significant, the start of a completely new chapter in my life. After 13 years as editor of South Bay’s Neighbor Newspapers and Seasons Magazine, I will be leaving my position to pursue a new adventure at the close of the month, taking my love of writing to the next level and exploring the vast opportunities that await just around the bend.
Change is never easy, least of all for someone with my affinity for routine and structure; but, as with all things, sometimes fate takes a hand and points you in a direction you never thought possible. Time, as we know, is one of life’s most precious commodities. As much as we would like to believe there will always be another chance to embark on a particular journey or pursue a particular dream, the simple fact is that we can never be certain. The time is now, always.
I have countless fond memories of my years working here at the old “South Bay” paper that I grew up reading, which I will touch on in more detail as the weeks progress. For now, though, suffice it to say that I am extremely grateful for the chance I was given to show my worth as a fresh-faced college graduate all those years ago. What began as a first step to “get a foot in the door” turned into a huge portion of my career, during which I was able to grow and flourish.
My nearly 700 In Step columns stand as the biggest testament to the incredible support I have received from my co-workers, family and friends - and, perhaps most importantly, from those readers who have turned into loyal followers and fans. You have all come along for this journey, week after week, and for that I am forever thankful.
Milestones have come and gone, as the columns have accumulated and the memories have been stored away for safekeeping between the lines of type. Along the way, the particular numbers have gotten miscalculated and misplaced; but now, as I approach the final stretch, I felt an official “count” was in order. To my surprise - and delight, given how I began this particular selection, I will finish my tenure here with precisely 681 columns - my birthdate {8/16} “boxed,” if you will, for those familiar with gambling terminology. A fitting end, if you ask me.
And with that, one more column in the books, three remaining - I would like to ask you, readers, for your feedback on what have been some of your favorites through the years, the topics and tales that stood above the rest. Your input has always been appreciated, and has been noted in many of my narratives over time. The stories may have been my own, but the writing was always for you. I look forward to reading your thoughts, and to taking you on my journey as I continue to contribute columns from time to time to my own personal website, SnapshotsAndSilhouettes.com.
’Til next time, may tomorrow’s birthday be just the beginning of a beautiful new chapter.
Published: August 15, 2018