Wednesday, Oct. 15, 5.15 p.m.
We’re not very far from Roanoke but that could be something my brain is telling my legs to keep them from kicking the passenger seat in the front. We’ve been driving for four hours now so my brain can’t be all that wrong. This will be my third SEJ conference and every year I look to it with a little more anticipation. Every year I make a secret promise to be more social, more cheery, and a lot less of a recluse. The trick, I’ve discovered is not to turn on the pressure; not right away at least. You’ve got to ease yourself into the networking bubble as it expands over the week and before you know it you’re submerged.
Here’s to meeting everyone I missed last year.
Friday, Oct. 17, 6.53 a.m.
Quick note: alcohol does wonders with the easing process! (Hangovers don't)
Sunday, Oct. 19
We're leaving behind red and orange trees that sparkle under sunny blue skies. The colors are a lot more vibrant than they were when we first drove into this part of Virginia. I can relate—I'm leaving Roanoke feeling a lot more charged and passionate about my profession and my urgent responsibilities as a member of this profession.
Every minute of this trip has been a learning experience. I've enjoyed meeting people who are fiercely attached to their land, their homes, and their rights. People, who as several claimed, are putting their lives in danger by battling against power. I've met people who have strong and forceful opinions regardless of what end of a spectrum they're at. Everything I've heard over the last five days has moved me in a way that's made me feel empowered and proud to be a journalist.
Here's to another very successful SEJ conference. It's truly an honor to be part of this Society. Now it's time to get to work.
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