Stepping into the column space last staked out by Keith Dryden is an honor, but a daunting task.
Dryden showed his dedication to this newspaper by continuing his writing for years after his retirement.
He showed his keen insight, wit, intellect, love of language, admirable journalism skills and devotion to agriculture and Western Canada. And he always met deadlines.
He’s a strong role model but he’s modest. He contributed to the soul of the paper, always gently reminding journalists that our role is to serve readers.
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He did it through his range of topics, from extolling the entries into the agricultural hall of fame to describing the manufacture of puffed wheat.
How does it feel to follow in his footsteps?
I feel like I am back on the farm. I recall my father waking up at 2 a.m. to check on the cattle during calving season. He would awaken me to ask if I wanted to go with him.
Groggily, I would pull on my parka and winter boots. The snow would crunch beneath my feet as I struggled to stay in the footsteps of my dad’s longer stride, down the long path to the barn, and through the sheds and every corner of the corrals.
I remember shivering from the cold, exhaustion and excitement. I knew we were doing something important and worthwhile, and I was walking in the footsteps of someone I admired.
With time, walking the paths became easier. I no longer needed to follow the exact steps, and occasionally I made the trips alone.
However, the lessons of direction and purpose remained. I continue to love the journey and respect the one who showed me the way.
This is how it feels, Keith. Best wishes.
