|
by Hurf Sheldon
|
|
Friday, 11 November 2005 |
|
Running for office was a new experience and one anyone who values community and service shouldn't hesitate to try it at least once.
It was rewarding in all facets. Many new acquaintances and many old ones seen in a new light made it worthwhile. The election didn't turn out the way I would have preferred. It wasn't all joy and roses - late nights, house chores put aside, etc. but the rewards outweighed the costs by far.
Losing wasn't a lot of fun. It is better than not having done it. It was a good showing and it might have gone the other way. We certainly weren't tilting at windmills. That said, Lansing ended up with a fine County Legislator who is smart and will work hard for us.
Some impressions from running for office:
- Dogs & cats - all the dogs in Lansing wag their tails, all the cats are curious. People love their pets.
- Helpful and encouraging people, even when they were openly not going to vote for me. Not one person was impolite.
Going door to door, walking down a street on a quiet, warm afternoon discussing the future with a new acquaintance who has lived in Lansing for over 60 years, absorbing the quiet wisdom of a very sharp mind. - A phone call (or two) politely and ernestly filling me in on an issue.
Printing, folding and labeling countless mailers over pizza with students at the lab I work in. The nice folks
in the bulk mail department at the Warren Rd. post office and the intricacies of bulk mail. - My first interview, which was also a first meeting with Dan Veaner, an interesting fellow I wouldn't have met otherwise.
- Working with Greg Lawrence, an interesting and likable person.
- Going around neighborhoods in the twilight with a flashlight getting universally warm greetings and it wasn't Halloween.
- Meeting extraordinary ordinary people that make up our town.
Making get out the vote calls after I'd lost my voice to a cold - I think I scared some people. That and the french toast I cooked at the Lions breakfast may have cost me the election. hmm Having truly unexpected support from a few people who I admire.
----
v1i17
|
Past Elections 
