By LEONARD GRAY

Sometimes, I truly question my childhood decision to enter the profession of journalism. There’s little monetary reward, there’s the tedious hours and there’s the crash and crunch of nerve-racking deadlines when it seems everything is going on all at once and there’s no time to cover it, never mind write the stories.

Then there are weeks like this.

Events flew thick and fast, from important but simultaneous meetings to murder trials and shootings.

For a reporter attempting to cover the River Parishes all at once, even an experienced reporter, the stress level can be daunting.

However, the blood is pumping, the adrenalin is flowing and the words pour from my fingertips for the next issue.

I’ve enjoyed writing short stories and novels, but journalism challenges my creativity, my energy and my ability to compete and succeed.

It’s why I got into this business, and it’s what keeps me doing this work, year after year.

It’s an education every day, as I’m constantly learning.

For anyone considering such a career, and you don’t mind making little money, it is challenging, exciting, boring, frustrating and the best job on earth.

LEONARD GRAY is assistant managing editor of L’Observateur. He may be reached at (985) 652-9545.