We All Have a Story: Missy Rosenberry, Rochester, NY Portrait Project

THE POWER OF WORDS 

"I was a junior in high school when my English teacher said four words that changed my life. 

She told me, “You’re a good writer.” 

I still remember exactly where I was standing after class that day, and how proud those simple words made me feel. But I didn't realize then how powerful they were, how much they would shape my future. Because from that day forward, I knew what I wanted to do with my life: I wanted to write. 

After graduating high school, I pursued that dream, studying communications at Cornell University and landing jobs in radio and public relations. Even as a stay-at-home mom, I wrote newsletters for my karate school, My Moms Club, and the Rochester Irish community. 

Then, in 2008, my writing reached a new level when the Democrat and Chronicle invited me to write a Webster community blog, followed several years later by the weekly East Extra community column. I had finally found a place where my written words could reach a larger audience, giving them even greater meaning and purpose. 

As a blogger and columnist for the D&C, I visit new businesses, post stories about community events, and spread positive news about our east-side Rochester towns, villages and residents. 

My words have helped launch new businesses and shined a spotlight on inspirational people. They’ve helped our community through times of unbelievable tragedy and mourning. They’ve spread good news about good people in a time when positive stories are few and far between. They’ve prompted tears and laughter, helped old friends reconnect and new friends meet. 

I am a busy, multi-faceted person. I’m a wife and a mother, and a full-time teaching assistant in two elementary schools. I like to camp, run, bike, hike and travel. I’m a martial artist, a volunteer, a community activist. I enjoy sharing a pint with friends. 

But writing defines my life. It’s my hobby, my outlet. Writing fills the empty corners of my day. 

Four simple words. “You’re a good writer.” They transformed a talent into a passion, and now my words enrich others’ lives every day. 

And as long as people keep reading, I will keep writing."

Missy Rosenberry

Library Teaching Assistant

Plank North Elementary

I've had the pleasure of knowing Missy for a long time. We connected when I first moved here, didn't see one another for several years and then we reconnected through our positions in the school district. I was so pleased she agreed to be a part of this project. So many of you know her from her writings with the newspaper and from her Webster On The Web blog. If you haven't visited that, make sure to check it out and leave Missy a comment. Thanks for visiting!