Penning About Favorite Pets

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Wednesday - July 22, 2009

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In the beginning there was pen and paper (actually computer and Microsoft Word). In between the hectic life of being a veterinarian, I would find myself drawn to the computer to write. I guess it was an outlet for my creative side. I started many books, although I’ve yet to finish one, and I tinkered with veterinary articles. At first, the articles were straightforward and, well ... medical.

Over time, the writings started to take on a different character, and I found my “voice.” My wife, Jan, would tell me, “Honey, why don’t you submit your articles and see what the newspapers say?” After years of getting “red marks” on my papers in high school and college, I was a bit reluctant to submit my works. In fact, it took more than two years to drum up the courage to show my writings to anyone.

Enter MidWeek. From the moment I sent in my samples, they were an encouraging, positive influence. I guess I envisioned editors as harsh taskmasters bent on wielding the power of the pen with utmost authority. It’s been just the opposite. Not only did they make me feel like a competent writer by complimenting my writing style, they orchestrated my appearance on the cover of MidWeek. Wow. My enthusiasm heightened as I met with staff writer Yu Shing Ting, who interviewed me for the cover story, and chief photographer Nathalie Walker, who spent hours taking more than 100 photos trying to make me look good (a difficult task indeed). At every turn the staff at MidWeek exemplified professionalism and an unbridled, infectious enthusiasm.

To date, my favorite article has been the one titled “Big Package For A Little Chihuahua.” For some reason, a lot of people thought it was hilarious. During my days as a schoolteacher in Wahiawa, my philosophy was that school should be fun. If it’s interesting and enjoyable, then not only will it hold the students’attention, but they may learn something in the process. The Wild Side embodies this philosophy.