This Thursday will mark my last day of employment at The Tifton Gazette.

Some will do a happy little jig after reading this news. I hope more will be, like me, a little sad.

I hate to see me go.

This is mostly due to the people I’ve come to know here in The Friendly City.

Despite a sometimes rocky terrain, my trek here in Tifton has been a great learning experience. I have learned and grown a lot, both personally and professionally. Here’s a taste of what I’ve learned professionally…

I have learned that when you do something wrong, it’s best to suck it up, say you were wrong, learn from the experience and move on. Actually, I learned that a long time ago. What I’ve learned here is that I have to let it go afterward. Dwelling on that stuff can kill you.

I’ve learned that you can’t assume that when you write something, people will understand your intentions.

I have learned that I can’t take things personally. This is really hard for me. But I have learned to take constructive criticism and use it to improve myself and my environment.

I have learned that people rarely comment on what you do right. They will, however, never stop commenting on what you do wrong. Especially on social media.

I have learned when to write – and when not to write. People don’t always want to share their stories. I respect that. People don’t always appreciate the things I appreciate. I respect that as well.

I’ve learned to truly dread the sound of my cell phone ringing after hours. That’s when they call and let you know there is a press problem or a problem with one of the pages, etc. It always happens, I’ve found, after I’m in my PJs at home.

As for personally, I’ve picked up a few gems as well…

I’ve learned that no one gives better hugs in this town than Dave Hetzel.

I’ve learned that Julie Smith is one passionate and fired up lady, and she truly cares about Tifton. I look forward to reading what the history books will one day say about Tifton’s first female mayor.

I’ve learned that no one has a bigger servant’s heart than Charlotte Bedell. She’s one of the kindest, most genuine people on this planet.

I’ve learned that if you want to know anything about anyone – and you want the real juice – you call everyone’s favorite Southern belle, Eunice Mixon. Be prepared to laugh. She can certainly show you how, as she’s one of the finest teachers ever to grace a classroom.

I’ve learned that there is no one who is a bigger advocate for Tifton than Tyron Spearman – and he makes a mean grilled PB&J.

I’ve learned to listen with my heart more often, rather than my ears. Hoy Wells and his mom, Regenia, taught me that. Hoy also taught me that our freckles are gorgeous.

I’ve learned that it is important to reach out to others and offer a shoulder to lean on and a listening ear. I learned that from Katy Podagrosi, who was one of the first in Tifton to extend a hand of friendship. For that, I will forever be glad. She’s quite the fireball and I’m glad I’ve had the honor to know her.

I’ve learned to choose to see the best in other people and in circumstances. I learned that from Keri Jones, who is one of the most positive people I’ve ever met.

I learned how to giggle again. I think I’d forgotten. I learned that from Eleanor Sheffield, who has one of the best giggles I’ve ever heard, and is one of the most generous folks I’ve met.

I’ve learned that even the smallest of gestures, whether it’s an email or a bag of jelly beans, can make someone’s day. I thank you, Roxie Price, for reminding me of that.

I learned about perseverance and faith when times get tough from the very gracious and incredibly sweet Brenda Callaway.

I’ve learned that no matter your age, grace and poise are always great accessories. I learned that from Anita Stewart.

I’ve learned a lot of lessons from so many good folks in Tifton…way too many to list in this space. Suffice to say, so many of you went out of your way in my first few months in Tifton to make me feel welcome. Thank you for continuing to show kindness.

I have to thank the good folks at The Gazette as well. I don’t think the community knows just how hardworking the staff of this newspaper is. We constantly do so much with so little because we care so much. That sounds so incredibly cheesy, but it’s true. So very true.

I am grateful to the staff I leave behind here. Eve Guevara is the real deal. She genuinely cares about her work as a reporter and the people she meets. You will enjoy getting to know her better. Sit back and watch her grow.

Mary Beth Yeary is our part-time paginator, but she works with her whole heart. She’s been a joy for me to work with the past few weeks, and I know she will continue to bring positivity to the newsroom – and everywhere else.

And then there’s Becky Taylor. One word: Wow. She’s a one-woman show when it comes to sports. I am constantly amazed at her knowledge, her carriage and her skill. People, appreciate “The Beckster.” You are privileged to have someone of her level here.

Where will I be going? Well, I’ve taken a job in Statesboro, and I look forward to the challenge. It puts me closer to my family, which is important to me.

So…onward.

Thank you, Friendly City. You will ever be in my thoughts and prayers.

You may reach Angye Morrison at angye.morrison@gaflnews.com.