By JONAH LOSSIAH
ONE FEATHER STAFF
Jonah Lossiah is the newest reporter for the Cherokee One Feather. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather photo)
If you’re reading this, I’d like to make a request of you. Take a deep breath and just think about a passion of yours. It can be anything. Maybe it’s beekeeping, music, or Dale Earnhardt Jr. Harness that feeling and think about why it makes you happy.
I believe that passion is the drive to life, whether that be for good or bad. Of course, not every day is perfect. There are some things you just have to do. But if you focus on the things that bring you joy, the world will be a better place for you and those around you. I’m passionate about a lot of things in life. Music gives me inspiration and peace. Sports provide me with seemingly endless entertainment. I also love writing.
This is why I chose to be a journalist. Not just because I love breaking news or being in the paper. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with people through stories. Whether that be the people in the article or those that are reading the stories. One of my favorite things about journalism is learning what people truly care about. Some people put their entire career towards a project, others might be just starting and shaking things up. Everyone has a story.
I was raised in the Big Y community up Wright’s Creek, and I have family all throughout the reservation. My parents, Bo Lossiah and Tracy Fitzmaurice, are two of the most important people in my life. I went to Smoky Mountain High School with my brother, and we’re about as close as you can be. Most of you probably know my stepmother, Anita Lossiah, as well. I’ve met many of you already, though I might have been about 6-years-old the last time you saw me.
Although I have connections to many individuals here in Cherokee, that doesn’t change how I’m going to go about my work. My father isn’t ‘dad’ when I’m on the job, he’s the curriculum developer at the New Kituwah Academy. That goes for all my family and friends.
The reason for this piece, other than to introduce myself, is to let you know that I want to fully integrate myself as a part of this community. As mentioned, I have a lot of family here. But through the One Feather, I’m establishing my professional foothold. I want to reintroduce myself to my home and do what I can to make it better.
Through this publication, I’m finally able to the meet all the folks that make this Tribe what it is. Over the last couple years, I’ve graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill, travelled, and met many amazing people. I’ve learned so much in that time, and by no means am I done exploring. But, the feeling I had when I settled back into mountain life was special. This will always be my home, no matter where on this crazy planet I might be.
I’m excited for this journey, but I’ve already talked enough about me. I want to make it known that I’m ready to listen. I’m not here to tell my stories, I’m here to tell yours.
