CubaPLUS Magazine

Today is a special day for all of us who practice journalism and I intend to write a brief reflection on our profession that requires a lot of sacrifice. Those who do not know our work closely believe that it is easy, "a piece of cake." However, behind each letter, each word there is a very important effort and behind each image it also requires professionalism and dedication.

When we are going to write an article, it is mandatory to do a great deal of research so that the final result is trustworthy, interesting and enjoyable and this requires hours of work. When we do an interview, the first thing we have to do is get to know a little about the life and work that the interviewee does and manage to ask him questions that finally allow us to write an interesting article.

A report, a chronicle also requires time and above all a great sense of perception because in them we transmit not only information, but also our impressions of a place or a fact and depending on how it is presented, the reader will show interest and will read it to the end.

This is also true for the work of the photojournalist, since a good image accompanying an article or an interview is essential. Do not forget the saying that "a picture says more than a thousand words." Daily news also require our work and I would say more. We must remember that events happen every day, at any time and any day of the year and many times, when there are days of national and even international celebrations, and the world is celebrating, we journalists are working.

We cannot forget those colleagues who keep everyone informed behind the cameras. They also need hours of effort so that everyone knows what is happening in the world. Many times they even warn people of possible disasters such as the passage of hurricanes and/or cyclones and other natural phenomena.

Finally, it is important not to forget the work of those who have been war correspondents, risking their lives and many have lost them in the service of their profession. In short, I do not intend to write a treaty on our work, but I do want people to think a little about the sacrifice it entails, sometimes many sleepless hours, and sometimes it is not valued as much as it should be.

I have been a journalist for more than 40 years and as long as my mind and body allow me, I will continue working, like many other colleagues I know who will surely think like me: if I were born again I would, without a doubt, be a journalist. Congratulations to all Cuban and world journalists on their day.