NancyGregg

"Just never let the fear of failure preclude you from trying something new."

This doesn't really go with today's reading at all, but I still think it is pertinent to what we've learned in news writing. I really like the way you said this. It reminded me of how we aren't supposed to use clichés, we should try to come up with new creative ways to say things. I thought this was a great way, and even more powerful way of saying "sometimes the greatest risk, is not taking a risk at all."

"Sometimes the greatest risk, is not taking a risk at all."

I love your quote, Lorin. You are so right; whether it's newswriting or writing in general, take risks. Moreover, that can apply to any and everything we do. Sometimes it's as simple (or complex) as stating your opinion. Maybe I'm becoming a crotchety, old lady, but that is something I'm doing more and more of. In this country, the worst thing that can happen is a few dirty looks.

As a freshman in college, I find that I am taking a lot more risks than I did thus far in my life, and I think that it is good for me. In high school, I was always the careful one, always taking the surest path. Now that I am in college I decided I can't be afraid of doing things that need to get done. I used to hate calling people I don’t know very well on the phone. But I’ve realized I'm never going to make it on my own if I am afraid to be assertive and if I put off what I need to do to get things done. For example, if I am trying to work or study I can't be afraid to tell my roommate and her friends to be quiet or leave. Before, I would just have let them be obnoxious and be frustrated upset the entire time because I was afraid others would think I am mean. But, now I know better than to let that stop me. So, even little risks like that can be significant.