TIKE

Times Writer

I have been a Times Writer for quite some time, and have been involved in several issues and major articles. I was there when Whyville paid tribute to September 11, 2002, a year after the terrorist attacks on the U.S. I talked about the Halloween Party, shared my darkest and most intimate feelings with the readers of the Times, talked about kindness, fashion, citizen-based swindles... you name it, I have done almost all of it.

Some may say the Times is just a newspaper, but I would say it is more than that. You never actually think you could be on the other side. Being the individual who writes, reports, and gets comments is a rewarding experience.

When I look back at my first articles, I admit that I am not proud of what I wrote or the style in which I chose to reflect my thoughts. I suppose I was holding back. However, I now realize that I am just getting into the groove of things, and writing is something I truly enjoy doing. In addition, looking back on the articles I have written, I can safely say that my work has improved, my perception has widened, and my opinions have become better known.

In light of this, what has the Times taught me? It has allowed me to obtain a greater understanding of others and myself. It took a lot of courage to write some of the articles that I have, and for that, I am proud of myself. Others, I admit, are a different story. I remember sending the Times Editor a piece of literature I wrote that I would not necessarily call an article. More like a glob of thoughts all mashed up together. Of course, it has not been published, but it is humorous to look back and laugh at my simple-mindedness at the time. Perhaps the Editor thinks so, too.

I have learned much more than strict, solid facts such as the theory behind rain, what is actually inside a bowl of Kraft Dinner, and "What's On!" every week. I have broken out of the realms of Science, History, and English and entered the minds of citizens as they talked about opinions and shared a joke or two.

The Times has helped me realize and accept that others have different opinions than myself. While they may clash, I find it intriguing on how students can take a topic such as "Cruelty to Animals" or "homosexuality" and morph it in several different directions. Although people can be cruel at times and very closed-minded, those who praise your work and thank you for writing make everything worthwhile. When they look for your articles and enjoy what you have to say, it makes composing an article fun, and I admit I have learned several things along the way.

While observing the Times throughout the past, I've come to realize that Whyvillians have so much to give. Writing poetry, taking pictures, and fabricating stories are among the many things we shine at. I understand that I am growing older, and one day I will break away from Whyville and stop writing articles for the Times, just like everyone. We hope that we can stay forever... but the sad reality is that we cannot. Other duties call to us and we must tend to our responsibilities.

I am not leaving at this moment, for I believe that I have just begun. There is so much more to explore and research and I want to be one of the individuals who you can rely on each week to provide you with the hardcore news, facts, stories, and opinions. I understand this may sound corny, but I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for supporting me and understanding my point of views and ways of life. I want to thank the Editor for being so dependable every week, because he knows how much Whyvillians enjoy the paper. He also plays a vital role in putting up with other Times Writers and myself.

I admit that most of the time it takes a while to write an article, but I must say that it is worth it. Moreover, I am hoping that the Times will be around as long as Whyville because to me, it is one of the most gratifying aspects of our extraordinary town.

Thank you for listening to me rant, and enjoy your week!

Crash and Burn,
TIKE