Another New Experiance
Woman in the Middle | August 12, 2016I was appointed to my local parks board a little over a year ago to fill the rest of the term of a board member who resigned. It has been an interesting time. I have learned a lot. I think I have contributed some as well. Most significantly, we hired a new general manger and we have been, well, managing him. Not that he needs a lot of management, but as his bosses we do have to give him direction as to what we expect. All in all, being on the board has been a very interesting and rewarding experience.
But it hasn’t been fun. As another blogger I know says: Pro Tip! My Pro Tip for you: if an elected official says being in their elected position is “fun,” vote for someone else. Being in a position with a lot of responsibility is not fun. It is rewarding, it is satisfying, it is frustrating, but it isn’t a barrel of monkeys, a bunch of kicks and giggles, or any such nonsense. It is serious stuff managing the public’s money, trust, and competing interests.
While it isn’t a full time job, it isn’t a hobby, either. Again, Pro Tip: if an elected official treats the position like it is a hobby, vote for someone else. Hobbies can be picked up and put down at will. If a hobby gets frustrating, you can walk away. You fit a hobby into the rest of your schedule. An elected position needs to be your number one priority, after your family and the job that pays your mortgage and puts food on the table. You don’t refuse an 8 am meeting because it interferes with your morning routine (and yes, I have seen that happen.)
All of that being said, I am running for election to the seat I have been filling since July 2015. A totally new experience for me. I have someone running against me so I will be buying signs, knocking on doors, kissing babies (well, maybe not that last one, unless I am personally acquainted with the baby). I am sure this will be something I mention to you in this here blog again before November 8th rolls around. It should be interesting, this ultimate act of democracy. Wish me luck!
That’s one thing I don’t think I’ll ever do: run for public office. Being on church boards and other boards have taught me well to avoid those things. My skin isn’t thick enough! I bless you on your way and you have my respect and admiration!
Good luck. You are a trooper.
Well said!!
You have my vote!
Ah, thanks! But it is by district and we don’t live in the same district.
Not something I would ever do but that said good luck to you
Good luck!!