Positive Four Years

There are defining moments in a persons life that lead him or her toward what they will become.  Life is made up of many of these moments.  Graduation, first job, marriage, kids, death of a loved one, or even a bad choice.  One of the best decisions I have made in my life truly changed the direction I was going.  I met the woman who would become my wife and in a relatively short time we committed to building a life together.  In the short time since we have truly been blessed beyond my wildest dreams.  This fact sank in very deeply the other night.

I dabble in politics and recently, for the second time, put my name on the municipal ballot for councilor in the Village of Sussex Corner.  I was hoping to serve my second term.  On election night I sat and watched my computer screen as the results came in and was surprised when I captured the most votes as councilor.  While this was a surprise, I was more taken back by the number of people who then offered congratulations through my email and Facebook accounts.  People from all over.  I struggled to acknowledge everyone and as I did I started to think "Wow!  How did this happen?  How did I get from there to here?"  It was a humbling feeling as I thought "I didn't do this on my own.  Family, friends, strangers, and God all played a role."  How do I honor this?

Don't get me wrong.  I have struggles and it isn't all peaches.  I work a great job that I love a great deal but it isn't for the money.  I struggle with trying to raise our kids in a manner that allows them to be who they are while instilling faith and a knowledge of right and wrong.  My marriage, like all marriages, also has its good days and bad days but one thing that never waivers between my wife and I is the commitment to be there and work at it.  Through all the struggles though we more readily embrace and enjoy the blessings.  The little things and big things keep us smiling.

Through this past election I have come to a realization.  It isn't just about politics.  It is, in fact, more about helping others build a better life.  It is about building a sense of community where people feel welcome, safe, appreciated, and respected no matter their lot in life.  So to honor all those who have helped me get to where I am, I will strive, over my next four years as Councilor, to bring a sense of community not just to Sussex Corner, but to whomever I might come into contact with.  I want to strive to keep a positive attitude no matter what challenges I am being faced with because I believe that positivity is contagious.

My first task in that is to ask all of you to stay positive with me.  Lets not complain but work towards solving our issues.  Lets share our blessing with those who are struggling to find theirs.

Here is to a positive four years and beyond.