I’ve always been interested in having a blog, but I just never got around to doing it. I’m excited for this new venture though. It’s funny to think that something that can be so close to keeping a journal, others would be interested in reading. But I myself have really gotten into perusing the large variety of blogs out there. I like how some are just purely entertaining, while others delve into deep or controversial subjects. And then, of course, there’s some that are just plain weird.

However, I do feel strongly that reading others’ thoughts and opinions is what brings about the most learning. Even if I haven’t agreed with others’ opinions, I enjoy reading them, if only to strengthen my own views.

When I was taking my college journalism courses, there was a lot of debate on whether or not blogging is a form of journalism. I definitely feel it has it’s place. I believe the purpose of all media is to inform. And while most media is broad, and supposed to strive for truth and impartiality, I think blogging is a medium that can allow the author to focus on his or her passions and share opinions.

I think it’s also given another source for information to those who are skeptical of the mainstream media. Now there’s another outlet for them to compare the news with or simply get their news from. Blogging can serve as a “checks and balances” system to the mainstream media. If a certain topic gets ignored by other media outlets, there’s another place society can get information from. Now, I wouldn’t advise people to take what any blog had to say as gospel, but even as a television news professional, I wouldn’t advise anyone to take what any TV, newspaper, or radio reports as gospel either. I think every individual has a personal responsibility to seek the truth for themselves. It never hurts to seek the whole story by looking at several sources. That’s just a good principle of research.

So there’s my thoughts on blogging in general. Now what I envision for this blog… Just as I report on different topics every time I’m on the job, my entries will probably always be very different. Another thing about being a reporter… the beginning of the day entails bringing up story ideas. Sometimes those ideas are shot down. It’s just the nature of the business. But perhaps I can use this blog as an opportunity to share those ideas with you.

Until next time…