Writing for the paper is such brilliant work
To honour the brave and to call out the jerks.
Not only do we connect you to news as we share
We get to tell stories that will make you care.
Like that lone volunteer who cleans up in the park
Or a service man who kept everyone safe after dark.
We share things that make you happy, that make you reach out and say “yes”
And when you accomplish something we’re there printing “You’re the best!”
Your sports team just won? Well, we’ll share it first.
With smiles so big you might think we will burst.
And when that deceitful jerk who is cruel to all
finally gets taken down, you will hear our call.
But a job like this, though fun, it’s no joke.
Although we have a fellow for that and he’s a mighty fine bloke.
On a serious note - all the tips that we receive,
Must be considered and sorted because gossip deceives.
A story is good, but we want to print truth.
And games of telephone, well, they seldom hold proof.
It’s not easy work, to be objective and look.
But if you print lies, well then you’re on the hook.
And trust me, I know.
I’ve had to print some revisions.
But making those mistakes have helped me make better decisions.
So if you’re not a tabloid, not just TMZ
Know that some stories have motives, drenched in jealousy.
And it’s natural, it happens - echo chambers and cliques.
And when repeated enough, those mis-truths tend to stick.
But when words hurt each other,
Well then, nobody wins.
And if we publish without question
Lies don’t get reined in.
You can fib once or twice
And you’ll probably be heard.
But put out enough gossip
And you’ll be thought of as absurd.
Besides, what’s the purpose?
What good did you do?
By selling a story that’s frankly untrue?
So, yes. It’s annoying.
And yes, it takes time.
But credible news is always better than grime.