I now bid you adieu
Goodbyes suck because they mean something is ending but I carry with me the memories of everyone who opened up to me and I will forever hold your stories close to my heart.
It’s difficult to begin penning a farewell letter to a community that welcomed me into their homes, businesses and lives. It has been a true privilege to have so many of you call, write and email me to share your grievances, joys, achievements, grief and love.
I have been at the Northsider for just over a year and I have never taken for granted the stories that you have shared with me.
To be a journalist and writer is a responsibility that I have never taken lightly. To not only write your stories in the community but to write news and articles that largely influence how people form opinions … that is an enormous responsibility.
I am eternally grateful to all of you who opened yourselves up to be interviewed, photographed, texted at odd hours and most importantly to residents who allowed me into their pain, their grief and mourning. Thank you for granting me an opportunity to catch a glimpse of your lives.
I simply want to leave you with this; everyone has a story to tell. So many times when I arrived at a story, I have heard people say “oh, I didn’t think anyone would care about this (me). I didn’t think this was a big deal.” Trust me, it is a big deal and as journalists we are always happy to receive the call.
I have also discovered so many scenic places in different communities that are completely hidden away and secluded, be it a park or lake that is being taken care of by the residents or a community association; I am always filled with glee when I discover something that I too can enjoy when I am off duty.
Finally, seeing that we live in the era of citizen journalism largely due to social media, I am asking that you please keep in mind that journalists in many newsrooms are guided by and follow the Press Code. This means that there are certain stories you might feel we did not adequately report on. While we absolutely have to be accountable, particularly to the public, we also need to abide by the rules and report within the confines of media law.
Thank you, Northsider residents. The honour has truly been mine.
