Sometimes, it’s easy to lose sight of what God has intended for us. Our human nature can be fragile, especially when fear and doubt creep in. I’m reminded of Peter, stepping out onto the stormy waves at Jesus’ invitation. As long as his eyes were fixed on Christ, he walked steadily. But once he looked away, fear took hold—and he began to sink.
This passage of scripture has been strongly pressed on my heart this past week. I’ve wrestled with doubt. Am I doing what I’m supposed to be doing? Am I serving where I’m meant to serve? Am I making a difference?
This business is not always an easy one. The age of printed news is fading fast, and we are continually making changes as the age of digital journalism progresses. It’s a time of tremendous change, one where we compete not only with large media outlets but also with social media influencers and self-appointed “journalists” who publish news minute-by-minute, without the same standards for accuracy or trust.
When I graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a degree in journalism 26 years ago, I never could have imagined how drastically the field would change. In an attempt to sharpen and hone modern skills, I enrolled at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro. It has been a wonderful, and eye-opening experience.
As it happened, I was offered an editor position by a man from the eastern side of the state who had recently purchased a local newspaper. There was simply no hesitation in respectfully declining the offer. One thing I do feel certain about —RNN is where my heart truly belongs.
As I researched the proposition, I realized something deeply disappointing. We were never visible to the organization claiming to represent newspapers such as ours. Even as paying members, our voices were not heard. That realization was sobering, and after years of affiliation, the owner and I made the decision to sever those ties.
In this season of change, I also saw relationships shift. Loyalties I once trusted no longer felt mutual. That was the biggest wave in my storm. But—God.
In the quiet of that storm, I felt His reassurance so clearly:
“Stop focusing on what is not for you. Keep your eyes on what I have blessed you with.”
I shared that message with my mom and the owner of our newspaper. And I knew—this was more than a thought or impression. In a moment affirmation, I received messages from readers and advertisers, expressing their support and gratitude. Staff members stepped up in big ways, taking on new roles and helping to carry the load. It was a blessing I didn’t expect, but one I deeply needed.
And so I am reminded: it’s not the storm that defines us—it’s the focus.
Like Peter, we will all face winds and waves. But when our eyes are fixed on the One who called us to step out in faith, we will not sink. In this ever-changing world of news and information, that truth anchors me.
So to our readers, advertisers, team, and community—thank you. You are a blessing. And we will keep our focus where it belongs.
— Tammy Teague
Editor/Publisher
