Thanksgiving is for Giving Thanks
T oday is the perfect day to say some of the things I want to say to you, my faithful readers. I am blessed beyond credibility to be able to write and have what I’ve produced be appreciated so generously.
First, I need to thank Sharon, my wife of over 53 years. I am grateful for her ideas, her suggestions, and sometimes I even appreciate her criticism. Many times she has made a suggestion which has ultimately become the subject of the next edition of Daunt to Dillonwood. Often when she suggests a subject it appeals to my “inner writer” and begins to flow off the tips of my fingers, and onto my computer screen. Sometimes an idea sounds good, but when my fingers remain idle and the idea doesn’t flow, I know it’s a nice idea, but not for this week.
Second, I want to thank Bill Parsons, Publisher, and Matt Sarr, Editor of the Porterville Recorder. Because of financial constraints, in March of 2017 the then-management of the paper was forced to drop my column. In March of 2018, when I went to Mr. Parsons with the idea of a sponsor, I couldn’t tell from his expression if he would consider it or not. I’d suggest you not play poker with him.
Within a few days I received an e-mail, the contents of which were electric. It said I was going back onto the Recorder pages, this time with a sponsor. I received the wonderful news on a Monday afternoon. Since my deadline for submission is mid-afternoon Tuesday, he suggested I could wait until the next Wednesday for my first appearance. Are you kidding me? No way. I was pleased to write the first Daunt to Dillonwood in a year. I’m also grateful to the subscribers of the Recorder for their support of our hometown newspaper.
Third, I owe a huge thanks to Weisenberger’s Hardware who financially sponsor the appearance of my writing for the Recorder. Janice Weisenberger is a long-time friend from high school and Panther Band days. Her daughter Sheri, and son-in-law Gary, who manage and operate the store, met with Janice to discuss the possibility of being a sponsor. The conversation was apparently short and sweet. As it was told to me the decision was ultimately made with one cryptic statement, “We’ve got to keep Brent writing.” For their confidence, caring, and support, I must say to all three of them a heartfelt thanks. You’ve paid me a great compliment, and I’m honored. Of course, the purpose of any money spent for advertising and promotion is to add cash to the till, which depends on the next group of people.
Last but certainly not least, I have to thank each of you who are taking the time today to read these words. Without your support and appreciation for what I write, Sharon would not be motivated to make subject suggestions. The Recorder would have no reason to take up space on Page 7, the Heritage page, every Wednesday. Without you, my faithful readers, Weisenberger’s would have no reason to spend their money to support a weekly column in our local newspaper. You’ve expressed your thanks, both by verbally speaking to them and by purchasing items from their shelves. You generosity has surprised them, so I thank you for your continuing support in both these ways.
Though they are behind the scenes to you, I also owe a big thanks to a special group of folks in my critique group. As a writer, I’ve learned how important it is to have other people read my work, then make suggestions to improve the phrasing, wording, and structure. My sincere thanks to: Shirley Hickman, Marilyn Meredith, Jann Mcguire, Dr. Rao, and Ela Pandya. You are directly responsible for any improvements in my writing skills.
When I attend events throughout our community, I’m continually amazed and flattered by the number of folks who take time to tell me they read and enjoy the column every week. Sharon is often stopped by grateful readers asking her to be sure to relate to me how much they enjoy reading my work.
I’m thankful for the many blessings I’ve been given, including the support of so many, plus the skill and motivation to create Daunt to Dillonwood. These are gifts beyond value.
Since Thanksgiving is for giving thanks, I offer to each of you my humble gratitude. Thank you. Have a blessed Thanksgiving Day.
Brent Gill lives in Springville. His “Daunt to Dillonwood” column appears regularly in The Porterville Recorder through the generosity of Weisenberger’s Hardware on West Olive in Porterville. If you enjoyed this column, follow his blog at http://brentgwriter.blogspot.com.