When I was growing up, watching the Olympics on television was a really big deal.  Summer or winter, we would watch our favorite athletes compete, admiring the skills and performances of Olympians from other countries, but always rooting for the United States to take home the gold. I was sad when an athlete stumbled in their performance when it counted the most and often wondered how can you work at something for so long, be considered the best of the best and then fail; and not just fail, fail with the eyes of the world watching you.

To compete in any arena, you have to be mentally and physically prepared.  You have to want to win more than anyone competing against you.  You have to do your best.  You have to perform and hope that what you did will demonstrate your skill and wow the judges.

I see that mindset in some of our articles in this issue.   David Hume’s story, “When Pigs Fly,” is a great example of believing in your team and overcoming the odds.  Janet Stiegler’s article, “Mowing for the Gold,” shows us that you have to work hard and show some creativity when you compete.  And on the flip side, Sheryl Keiper’s story about “Harold,”  shows us that after the Olympic events, the medals and the cheering crowds, you can still find joy in retirement.

Staying with the competitive spirit,  Ava R., one of our teen writers from Sydney, Australia,  encourages girls and young women to get involved in sports, in her story, “The Benefit of Girls Playing Sport.”  Avery B., from West Brunswick High School says being in shape doesn’t take much, read the story, “The Walking Living,” to find out more.

We also explore history in this issue.  Nancy Bryans cautions us to learn from the past in her story, “Tobacco Row,” while Dan Neizmik spins the story of “Ghost Troop 26,”  and the red bandana.  Lisa Mote writes about “Farms Under Threat,”  that talks about how  in the name of “progress” a way of life is being erased. But history is also in the future.  See Doug Ensley’s story,  “The Fate of the Europa 7,” as he explores how sometimes progress is just one big circle.

Please read my story, “It Could Happen To You,” on the homeless population in Brunswick County and what is being done to aid and assist those who need it the most, especially in our veteran community.  You would be surprised to learn how easy it is to become homeless.  I speak from experience and remember the fear that I felt at the possibility.

Cape Fear Voices and the Teen Scene, Inc., are doing some amazing things in the coming months.   We are excited and hope you will be too!

Check out our poetry on aging, beauty and strength and laugh with Paul Paolicelli, as he admits, “I Lied.”

Whatever you do this month, take some time to read our talented group of writers.

Thanks!

Jan Morgan-Swegle, Editor, Cape Fear Voices