It's extremely hard not to be bitter over an unceremonious layoff, especially after pouring your heart and soul into your job for the better part of a decade. But despite everything, I want my former staff to thrive. I want them to grow and reach the heights I envisioned for them. As I told one of them, the best way to avenge me is to do the absolute best job they can. Following through with what I taught them and following up with what I left hanging are the only things I need to know that I've made a positive impression on them. I still love the business and that goes doubly for my former newsroom. Regardless of where my path takes me, news is important, it is necessary, and it's in jeopardy...support local journalism. Now.