I intended to write this letter further into the year, but your birthday decided to sprinkle the calendar this Monday. Editors love timeliness, after all. To the one who sacrifices his time, energy, and sleep in order for all the Creators to have their voices heard -- you deserve to hold the spotlight (at least for one article).
Thank you for giving me this opportunity.
Creators voices reach millions who need hope, advice, or even a laugh -- and this all happens because of you. I get to edit through 15 articles a week because you provided this chance.
Thank you for your undying enthusiasm.
Some weeks, I feel as if someone has thrust my brain into a paper shredder. Creators quit, technology glitches, and writer's block infects everyone on our team. Yet, your fervor propels us to continue. Your cheery gifs and passion for Odyssey spreads onto those you work with.
Thank you for keeping us accountable.
During the school year, deadlines tend to dwindle in the back of our minds. Drafts ready for editing lay untouched. However, because of you, these patterns do not persist for long. You urge us to work to the best of our ability. You do not let a single draft slip through the cracks. I hope I can reflect your leadership skills some day.
Thank you for your advice on how to navigate the digital landscape.
Your knowledge and expertise of the publishing world and social media has benefited me and my team immensely. Tips you've shared allowed for articles to reach readers who needed the messages of hope or humor. Lives change because of you.
Thank you for believing in me.
I entered the Odyssey community with a timid spirit. The weight of an entire team rested on my shoulders. Could I do it? Could I edit through the articles, provide tips, manage a GroupMe, encourage teammates, and enforce deadlines? But, you dissuaded my fears. Whenever I faced a trial of a week, you encouraged me to continue onward. You embraced me into the EIC community, and always transform a little victory (onboarding several members) into an enormous triumph.
And of course, thank you for being born! Happy Birthday.