This day came so much faster than I anticipated. Not only is this my final column, but also my final article for the Champion. I’ve had the privilege of contributing to this paper for the past four years; I’ve written for every section and experienced far more opportunities than I could ever list here.
To say that this newspaper changed my life is not in the least bit dramatic — although at times I am very dramatic. I came to college with one main goal: to become a journalist and tell people’s stories. I am blessed to say that has been accomplished — not by my own will but by the glory of God.
I have always been a writer; to tell the truth, sometimes I can’t straighten out the thoughts in my head until I put a pen to paper. That’s just the way God formed me. In fourth grade, I recall my teacher calling me over to her desk with tears in her eyes, reading an essay I wrote about my grandmother. “You have a gift, Anna,” she said. “Please never stop writing.”
I thought that was kind of funny. In truth, I hadn’t put forth much effort into that assignment; I was just writing what was true. And why would I ever stop writing? That’s the only way I know how to truly share with others the contents of my mind.
It wasn’t till much later that I understood what she meant, that the ability to write is a gift — a lost art, even. Throughout the years, the Lord has blessed me with so many opportunities to see the world and meet people formed in his image. Although I love any sort of writing, it’s become apparent that I was made for storytelling. What a gift it is to be trusted with sharing someone else’s story.
So, as I reflect over these last four years with the Champion, the attribute that stands out the most is the people I have encountered. From incredibly talented editors to the plethora of athletes and coaches I’ve interviewed, each one has left a profound impact on my life.
As I take these next steps toward the future, I have no idea what the Lord has in store for me. But instead of worrying about tomorrow, I’m learning to cherish this time I have had and everything it has taught me.
It is with great sadness that today the Whiteboard will be wiped clean, but I find joy in knowing that this is not the end. There’s a beautiful world out there, and even if it isn’t here, I will find a new space to write. As long as I’m breathing, I’ll never drop my pen.
1 Peter 4:10-11 says, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies — in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”
White is the Editor-in-chief for the Liberty Champion.