I can appreciate the idea that if one does not understand why the council
people do these crazy things, we will not be able to change things. I know
first hand the extent of such cynicism. As an active candidate I see it every
day. "What can you do?", is a common statement.
I do not wish to defend the actions of Mrs. Cherryhmomes or those of Mr.
Biernat. However I do wish to chastise this implied cynicism society as a
whole places on the candidate in the field trying to make a change. I believe
that the majority of candidates get involved because they believe that they
can best address their agenda. I hope that that agenda is one that is in the
best interests of the community. Some do look towards public office as a
place to grind their ax or to advance their beliefs or personal agenda. But
there are some that seek to serve. The word public servant only comes up in
impeachment processes and not in debates. I will be the first to say that
wanting to work for the public is at best a personal sacrifice of vanity. You
expose yourself to criticism on ANY subject, whether you have the ability to
impact the topic or not. But I choose to look at any candidate that I see
hope in, as a new start. I do not think a clean slate is necessary to make
change. The time a good candidate has the greatest chance to fails soon after
elected. This is the time for the people who helped elect this official to
step up and help fulfill their objectives. To often though we breathe a sigh
of relief, and believe the fight is over. It is not. We to often leave the
official realign to accomplish all promised, alone. Soon the special
interests can step in and assist and align themselves. I do not want to offer
this up as an excuse. I just want to encourage all those who would to stand
up and fight for what they believe in to do so. And when tiring - "pass the
torch." But be vigilant to take it up again when rested, to give pause to
those who are carrying it now their own chance to rest and recharge.
Yes, I know it has all been said before and seen before. But can we honestly
just take it and agree to be complacent?! For those who do not believe the
power of one to change things, I offer up some people such as Nelson
Mandella, Ryan White, Andre Sacarov, Gunars Astra and the man who stood in
front of a tank-unwaivering-in Tienamen Square. I do not profess to be in the
same league as they are, but I do believe that that same spirit can be
applied to everyday life. And yes, to city politics. I do not intend to be a
status quo candidate. If I am the only newly appointed official in the whole
city, I will not assume that I will not be able to make a change for the
people. And I most certainly will not accept any thing less than an active
involvement by my constituents in my tenure as councilperson. Together we can
make a difference and avoid the "corruption" and or "decay" that we to often
see.
I to believe that the sun will rise every morning and that a positive
attitude will get you further than cynicism. I encourage all in the those who
would help to change the current course to help in any way you can. Contact
your candidates. Ask what you can do. Volunteer to move ahead. But do not
accept complacency or cynicism as acceptable.
Thank you for your time.
Valdis Rozentals
Saint Anthony West
#
3rd Ward Council Candidate.
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