So, the universe has conspired to give me a new side gig... writing! The editor of Inspiring Lives Magazine gave me this opportunity for which I will always be grateful.
I am an advocate of not hiding quirks - they are what makes us who we are. One of my quirks is my geekish love of Broadway Musicals. I proudly proclaim it - sometimes heading down a conversational road others cannot follow. And like a Star Wars geek who finds himself faced with blank stares when speaking of Banthas... I taper off and bring things around to a more mainstream topic.
But evidently my quirk leaves an impression - and it was the impression I made on Cori Wamsley, whom I met while networking, that brought this opportunity my way. So when she called to ask if I'd do a review of The Greatest Showman, I jumped at the chance - with a lump in my throat - reminding myself that if I'm not scared, I'm not growing.
Writing helps me do what I do, but it usually comes in the form of editing or rewriting content given to me. Most graphic designers wouldn't do that, but if I see room for improvement that helps my clients, I offer my assistance. I think it's that aspect of my work that sets me apart. After all, my business is not labeled as "graphic design", but as "creative services". What is creativity but a way of expressing oneself no matter what the form?
So, thanks to Cori, I was pushed to be creative in a new way. One that was extremely challenging, exciting and rewarding. The result is shown here. Click on the image. Give it a read. If you haven't seen The Greatest Showman, rent or buy it. If you have seen it - let me know if my review captures it!
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P.S. When I wrote the review - as far as I knew - the magazine distribution was local to Pittsburgh. After I turned it in, Cori informed me that it was going national with my issue. I'm kind of glad I didn't know that. Then I was excited that the odds that Hugh Jackman might read it had increased dramatically. FYI - Hugh has not yet contacted me to tell me how insightful my review is and how it has changed his life - but I'll keep you posted.