Age is a funny thing. When I was in my 20s, I thought I could do anything. There was no fear of failing because if I did, I’d just pick myself up and do something else.

When I was in my 30s, I became more serious about a career and making a living.

In my 40s, there was almost a desperate need to prove myself. It was the culmination of everything I had worked for coming together.

And then I turned 50. The specific milestone wasn’t too bad but since that time I have taken stock in my life of where I’ve been, where I am now, and where I think I should be by now. Along with the half-century mark came a desire to do the things I wanted to do and not the things I have to do.

That’s where I am. There are things I want to do but I don’t have the time because of a demanding job. Although I enjoy being the editor of these three weekly newspapers, there are some days I don’t enjoy as much as others. This job requires someone who has the energy and focus to keep doing this, week after week after week.

So, I have decided to step down from the position of managing editor. The decision did not come easily for me. But after much contemplation and some tears, I made the decision.

My last day at the newspaper will be July 27, then I will move on to the next step of my life as a county employee.

My only regret about resigning is leaving my employees and the newspapers’ owners in a lurch.

This newspaper has always been important to me — I grew up with it even from a distance. My father was a faithful subscriber for more than 70 years, reading it to my sisters and me when it came in the mail each week. I have nothing but the utmost respect for the Meyer family.

I remember when Bill Meyer first approached me to work for him. I was working at the City of Marion. I asked Bill how he knew I would make a good reporter. He said he was a good judge of people and just knew I could do the job. A couple of years passed before I took him up on his offer and I haven’t regretted the decision.

When given the opportunity to step up from news editor to managing editor, I jumped at the opportunity. I embraced it and did everything I could to make this company a success.

I have had the privilege of working with some very talented and dedicated people these past eight years. There are numerous people being considered for my replacement and I am confident that whoever takes over will be a positive addition to this newspaper.

The current staff is a dedicated and hardworking bunch. They will continue to do everything they can to provide quality newspapers. Your continued support will be appreciated as the newspaper goes through this transition.

— susan berg