I’ve been away for a while. Yeah, I’m guilty of that. But I did want to call your attention to the above photo, and if you frequent Starbucks, something I hope you noticed this year during the holiday season. ‘Stories are Gifts to Share’ was one of a couple monikers part of their seasonal campaign. The little cardboard wrap that keeps you from burning your hand bore this phrase. I’ve tacked it up at my desk as a reminder of what my focus should be: Not just facts and information, but stories.
As a journalist, the printed sentiment is something I feel is entirely true. There are so many incredible stories. Some that inspire. Some that teach. Some that help. Some that heal. Some that expose. Some that anger. Some that will truly change anyone who watches them.
I feel it’s especially true about television. And Edward R. Murrow said it best:
“This instrument can teach, it can illuminate; yes, and even it can inspire. But it can do so only to the extent that humans are determined to use it to those ends. Otherwise it’s nothing but wires and lights in a box.”
