On to part three of a look back at my year that was 2023. A lot happened.
March
I wrote about a lot of people who died in March of last year.
Matt Beckman, Deb Flemming, and Donnavon Eaker.
That trend seems to continue, not only by me, but among all of our columnists at the paper. I’m grateful the newspaper serves as an outlet to openly write about the lives of people who are important in and around the NRHEG community. Sure, most folks have their obituary placed in the newspaper, but reading about stories, hearing about the mourning process is a good thing. More connects us than divides, and death is a universal truth that we all share. Reading about how others cope has been good for my mental health. It helps me not feel so alone in my mourning.
Also, writing, the process itself, is good for me when I’ m processing emotions and events. I don’t believe I am alone in that regard.
Back to March.
The month started with Dan Stork receiving a recognition award. I remember Dan as my gym teacher going back to probably kindergarten. He has been a staple. Throughout my entire schooling life, Dan was there. As a coach, a teacher, and athletic di-
rector. Always smiling, and always there for a good conversation.
Also written about during March was Nate Jensen. There was no more popular substitute teacher throughout my career at NRHEG than Jensen. The story was supposed to be about bus drivers, and, well, after some phone calls to the office, Melanie was directed to Nate. And, well, Nate does a little of everything.
During the final week of the month, I wrote the equivalent of half of a novel in one week.
My cousins won farm family of the year and the Winter Sports banquet took place, all in the same week. I was so captivated with the stories of those families at the farm and city luncheon that I wrote a story about each family which won an award. And, well, I was so captivated with the conclusion of the winter sports season that I wrote a story about each team's season following the banquet.
I remember sitting down to write Saturday morning, and concluding Sunday evening. (Yes, I took a break to sleep and eat.)
I think the total was 17,000 words and looking back, I’m glad I did it.
Like most things newspaper related, I’m glad I did it all.
“Live a life full of humility, gratitude, intellectual curiosity, and never stop learning.” – GZA