Changes ahead

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines change as making or becoming different. It goes on to say change “implies making either an essential difference often amounting to a loss of original identity or a substitution of one thing for another.”

Over the past year, it seems a lot of things have changed. People were acting different, altering their daily routines and modifying their way of thinking. After a year, these changes seem to have a certain degree of permanence to them that wasn’t there in the first few months of the pandemic. That is what comes when the world changes nearly overnight.

Unfortunately, we have been reminded these past few weeks that some things never change — like hatred and mass violence. This is a heartbreaking reality that some people cannot seem to shake those old beliefs; those incorrect views that somehow someone is naturally better than someone else. Or, we see people who feel the need to senselessly take the lives of random strangers in a cry for help or seeking notoriety.

I pray necessary changes can happen in the world in my lifetime, and everyone else should, too. I pray the world will be different for my 1-year-old son that he may never have to read about or see these random acts of violence happen with such frequency.

I didn’t start out writing a column to talk about the national tragedies. Change has been on my mind for a while, so I would be remiss if I didn’t at least mention my want for change. It’s something that has been a work in progress for centuries, and hopefully we can progress even further in the years to come.

It’s time for me to get back to the true inspiration for what will be my final column.

I, myself, am on the brink of a big personal change. You see, this is my last week at the Newton News. After six years at the newspaper and nearly 11 years in journalism, I have decided to pursue career options outside of the newspaper business.

It has not been an easy decision. I truly care about the newspaper and want to see it be successful and put out quality journalistic content. The past two years as editor of the paper have been some of the most challenging years in the profession with so many changes.

I know I leave the editorial department in good hands. I am truly thankful for the continued hard work from Chris, Dana, Jamee and Troy. This past year would not have worked without all of you putting your best effort into everything we do on the news side of the paper. Know that working with you during these tough times made it a rewarding experience.

I have also been glad to get to know and work with Kelly, Brenda, Carrie, Teresa, Kate and Melyssa. While the number of people at the paper has decreased, the dedication from these individuals has been what has kept us going through the difficult times in the pandemic.

I will always be proud to have worked at the Newton News. I met some wonderful people along the way and will continue to stay in touch with current and former employees. I have made countless memories in my time here. From meeting Jamie Lee Curtis to helping plan our first virtual candidate debate, I have had lasting experiences I hope to share with my son when he is older.

Thankfully, I will be remaining in Newton, so I will be able to keep up on my community by reading the Newton News. I believe community journalism is so important, and I hope people will continue to follow and subscribe to our product. We need professionals like these to be the eyes and ears of the community. Keep up the good work everyone. I will be reading!

Contact Pam Pratt at pampratt@newtondailynews.com