Put out my first work newsletter for a month today.
I often sail a bit close to the wind with my editorials, skirting the edge of what’s acceptable to stay interesting, fun and relevant. Occasionally I worry I might have pushed the envelope too far (apologies for all the mixed metaphors!) such that I might get in trouble, so I get one of my co editors to read it before we send it out.
When my co editor came to my desk this morning looking a little concerned and anxious, I knew something was up. There were so many potentially problematic parts! Was it my bragging about my overseas holiday to colleagues who might never be able to afford such a trip? My comments about sectarian turmoil in Northern Ireland? Were there confidentiality issues in my anecdotes about my working week, like the patient who asked me as she regained consciousness how soon she could start having sex again? No, it was none of those things. What concerned her was my exhorting everyone to vote in the local body elections. I couldn’t believe it. I hadn’t even told readers who to vote for, although I guess I implied they shouldn’t vote for some of the nutjobs that are running. I pretended to consider her concerns, but said we should go ahead and send it out anyway. I said I’d take the blame if we got into trouble. I’ll let you know if I get any kickback.