Over the past several months, I have had the pleasure of working the journalism side of the newspaper. This was not something I was trained for and really not something I had ever really given a lot of thought to. Someone even mentioned to me how hard writing must be. Honestly, many times the words simply flow out.

Now I will be the first to admit that many journalism folks probably can read my words and pick up on the fact that I have not been schooled in AP (Associated Press) style, with many probably rolling their eyes at my work. I prefer many times to write from the heart and share someone’s story.

I always enjoy sharing accomplishments of folks in our community, especially the students in our schools. Unless you have a child in the school systems or teach in the schools one might not have a clue as to some of the fascinating experiences the kids are able to participate in at this time.

Working the journalism side has enabled me to witness some really remarkable things happening in our community. I have witnessed high school students from the fishing team working side by side by IRC students teaching them how to fish. I have watched as those kids’ excitement grew into a huge smile on their faces as they caught a fish, which many might not otherwise have ever had the opportunity.

I have watched a young man complete a Rubik’s Cube in one minute and thirty seconds, and made it look very simple. Honestly, I have never finished the puzzle at all.

I have watched as a young man was honored for saving the life of his grandfather and kindergarten kids walk into school beaming with excitement as they begin a new journey.

I have watched and listened to the excitement of junior high students as they explained how they built a robot out of a box of material. The robot not only worked, they also wrote the program that enabled the robot to be controlled remotely. Watching the eagerness of kindergartners as they see a farm animal up close and in person, finding out that eggs do not come from a carton at Kroger. Just recently listening to a fourth grader explain kinetic and potential energy just left me in awe of what kids are able to do and learn in school in this century.

I am fascinated listening to veterans telling the story of being away from home and missing their families, and what it was like to be in battle, also listening to the pride in their voice and the sense of patriotism when they recite the pledge of allegiance as they are honored at a veterans program lets you know how much they love their country.

While an old dog may not be as fast as some of the young ones, you are never too old to learn something new, and who  knows, you might event enjoy your new found knowledge.

Thanks for the opportunity and when I make mistakes bear with me, I am enjoying sharing the good things about our town and community.

Randy Garrison is the president and publisher of the Hartselle Enquirer.