Columnists Have a Day! April 18

As you read this, I hope spring has fully arrived, that we have been enjoying the dogwoods in the forests and along the roadways without wearing hoodies as we hike or using heaters as we drive. We have been long overdue for an extended dose of blue skies and sunshine.

If that is so, grab three of the pooch's toys and step outside, maybe behind the house to avoid curious stares, and juggle them to Fido's delight. What better way to celebrate International Juggler's Day today? Jugglers I saw as a child, usually on the Ed Sullivan show, mesmerized me but also puzzled me when they added sharp objects or burning ones to their routines. Juggling just three balls seems beyond my ability; I can't even get the steady rhythm required just to switch two from hand to hand, much less add a third. I haven't completely given up the dream, though you won't see my attempts till I have mastered it, for sure. It is bound to be a GREAT brain workout.

The first thought I had when I noticed this 'holiday' for April 18 did not bring to mind keeping multiple objects circulating in front of my face, though. Instead I envisioned managing multiple diverse tasks with approaching deadlines. Most of us do that with varying degrees of skill throughout our lives, which might draw similarly curious stares from those who don't fully comprehend our frenzied zigzagging. Probably NOT a great brain workout with the stress it creates.

Today is also National Columnist Day, which sounds more like an authentic day to celebrate, especially since it was established to honor a famous war columnist of World War II- Ernie Pyle. Pyle didn't write about the events from a desk in a shiny office building; he wrote from the midst of combat, experiencing it firsthand, sharing truth from a soldier's view. A year following his receipt of the Pulitzer Prize, he was killed by a Japanese sniper.

Columnists and journalists contribute to our understanding of events. We count on them to tell us the truth, to hold leaders accountable, and to offer perspectives and comfort that me might miss. At least, that's the way it used to be, before the invasion of the press by fake news. May we continue to reward those who reflect the standards exemplified by Ernie Pyle.

If you have read this far, you are celebrating in the best way possible, by reading a column. I don't pretend to write but for my enjoyment and yours, so there is no comparison to the work of the Pyles among the ranks. May we honor them.