Many thoughts went through my mind during the banquet last Tuesday as Deb, my parents and I were waiting with anticipation to find out whether I had been selected as Minnesota’s Young Journalist of the Year.
Deb and I discussed many thoughts on our drive to and from St. Paul.
Deb asked me if I thought I was going to be awarded first place. The realist/optimist in me thought yes. The pessimist thought I was named a finalist by mistake.
My friend Jake tells me I need to enjoy moments and awards like this because of the number of times I am yelled at in situations which don’t require yelling.
My dad tells me I’m supposed to write about acknowledgements and awards we receive at the newspaper to remind people that what we do has value. That the work we’re doing is important.
My mom said seeing me get an award like this just makes her want to cry. She’s so proud.
I didn’t realize when I was named a finalist for this award that I was competing against journalists from the Star Tribune, Minnesota Public Radio, and every other radio, television or newspaper in the state which has members in the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists.
I wasn’t asked to give a speech or anything when I was announced as the winner, however, comments from the selection committee were read aloud. That was cool.
Deb asked me what I would say in a speech.
I think I’d simply thank people.
First my dad.
I wouldn’t have pursued journalism if not for him.
I’d also thank my mom.
I wouldn’t have pursued journalism if it were not for her.
I’d thank Deb Bently and Reed Waller and Melanie Piltingsrud.
And all of my English teachers, including Mark Domeier and Nancy Rudau.
I certainly wouldn’t have the skills I have today if not for all of them.
If I were to talk about anything of substance, I’d talk about pursuing one’s dreams. In order to do so, one first must identify what those dreams are.
Usually that means identifying something you’re particularly good at or have the potential to be good at. I’m told when you’re concentrating on your skills and interests, work doesn’t feel like work. On the other hand, let’s face it, building a successful career would be essentially impossible in a professional field you’re unfamiliar with.
Of course I’d thank the good Lord for all my blessings. They are plentiful.
I consider myself lucky. I’ve found something I’m good at which brings joy to people around me.
I make too many mistakes and I’m hard on myself when those mistakes are brought to my attention. I would close my speech reminding myself and everyone else, to be kinder to yourself, and to the world.