I said "no."

I turned down my job offer today. If I'm going to be a reporter, I want to be a good one. I want to be so much more than a story factory churning out as many words as possible.

Yesterday the editor told me the specifics of the job. Today I told him the specifics of the job I want. I hope something can be negotiated -- by that I mean I hope he agrees to my conditions --but I doubt it.

I'm talking with another editor about a job working in a Mennonite community and covering the nearby aboriginal town. The towns are rich with history and although I would perhaps be stoned to death for looking a man in the eye, it would be a fascinating experience.

For now I'm keeping my options open and seeing what will happen. Thanks to everyone who offered their advice. I appreciate it.