I had a self-absorbed moment last week when I realized I had posted my 52nd column on Milwaukee Magazine’s web site. It meant I’ve written a year’s worth of material, meaningful only to me of course. But it prompted me to realize that I’ve been so very lucky to have this opportunity, and simply wanted to say thanks.
This last year has been remarkable, and wonderfully fun. I tiptoed into an area in which I had no experience, a better late than never dream of my Dad that I’d become some sort of writer. And while I may not have achieved any real status, you all have been kind enough to follow me on this crazy adventure, and believe me, the honor of that is not lost on me.
My Dad was always encouraging me to write, whether it be poetry or prose, and always had something of import to say in his letters after I moved away from New Jersey a long time ago. His ability to put words together was simply amazing and my wish is that I absorbed just a little of that talent. I hope they have access to computers in heaven.
I also got some inspiration from John Grisham, my current favorite novelist who’s latest book, The Litigators, was just released. I did some investigating to see how some accomplished writers got going, and found that Grisham started out as an underwear salesman at Sears. He tried numerous times to get fired, but kept getting raises. Please refrain from the obvious pun here. That would be hitting below the belt. He then went on to intern at a local law firm and began writing his first book, A Time to Kill, by getting up at 5 in the morning and writing every day before going to the office. That’s dedication. And a good lesson to learn.
I get nervous as an expectant parent every week, first trying to come up with something to write about, then attempting to find a way to entice you all to read past the first sentence. It is incredibly nerve-wracking, but there is an incredible sense of accomplishment when I get to hit “publish” and I’m feeling good about what I’ve written.
I am truly honored that you all have occasionally joined me on this journey. I’ve been encouraged by many of you to continue, to think bigger things and to have bigger goals. I will. And I do.
So, let me say thank you. Thank you to Milwaukee Magazine, Bruce, Cristina and Evan, for giving me the opportunity. And thank you, my dear family and friends, for reading my weekly meanderings, and for your positive comments. They, and you, mean the world to me.
