The only thing to dread was my own stagnation from self-doubt and procrastination. If rejection hailed me down, I would just keep hacking away, learn from my mistakes and try harder. I know now that as much as I wanted this goal when I was young, being who I was and how I was plugged into life, I wasn't ready for it. Today, as I have come out the other end a stronger and more determined writer and woman, I only wish my dad were here to share the joy. As I currently embark on my first real gig as a reporter, eager to cover meaningful human-interest topics and people, this late bloomer urges every person reading these words to not lose confidence in their own vision or abilities.
Life is a treasure chest.
But you have to accept that not all your riches are waiting at the top. You must also believe that quite often the road not taken, no matter how much you wish to follow it, can not be included in your journey until you have traveled other paths first. Search our online archive, or browse past editions. All rights reserved. Direct questions and problems to the webmaster .