I started this project back in June with no real sense of what I wanted to accomplish. I knew I wanted to increase awareness of AMC and help share stories with others going through similar experiences. But that was it. There was no great plan in place, I just jumped in without looking.
Now months later I can say this has been a constant learning experience. I am moving from the director’s chair into the editor spot and finding I have so much more to learn. For several years, I had the good fortune at my job to film several corporate documentaries and various video podcasts. Budgets were bigger, greater resources available and I wasn’t personally connected to the topics. I think once this became personal, I started to overanalyze and second guess myself. Often causing me to slip self-imposed deadlines and freeze, rather than embrace the challenge.
The technical learnings aside, I have also learned so much about the AMC Community. We have people around the world, happy to share their experiences and help others just starting this journey. I have heard from people in Sweden, Ireland, UK and Chile. Not to mention finding some new AMCers that are now part of the support group. Every day when I get an email from a new contact, it truly amazes me. We all believe in the same goal: to share our stories and help others starting on this path. Many of these people I would have never been fortunate enough to have met before Owen. Today I have the largest family/network that I can rely on for support, a place to stay and a shoulder to lean on. I really do have to stop and wonder, what did I ever do to get so lucky?
How many people can wake up every day and say, today is going to be even better than yesterday which was a fantastic day. I get chills and feel so proud when I hear from others sharing their stories. I have learned that you will never have it as bad as someone else. Cherish each day and look at the small things for joy. Be present, listen and learn. Too often our minds are somewhere else as we are listening to a friend, cooking dinner, playing with the kids and catching up on email at the same time. Now I try to be present and savor every moment because it will never be repeated exactly the same way.
The biggest lesson by far has been that people are genuine and willing to help. There are good people willing to donate what little they have to help others. This journey is going to be something I will remember for the rest of my life. And I am so glad I will be sharing it with all of you.
