As I sat down, after the customary handshake, in the sturdy, yet not-so-comfortable chair, I began talking to the two ladies in room about this prompting I had (and continue to have for that matter) to seek public office. I explained how I have been meeting with many others (132 as of today) in order to do my due diligence in what would be an extremely uphill battle, considering that I have not been active in any party over the years. Our conversation ran to all areas of the political and religious spectrums from abortion to states rights to the climate to charitable giving. Within 10 minutes, I knew that my libertarian-conservative leaning views differed from theirs; however, to their credit, they remained kind to me during our entire 70-minute conversation. It was my goal to glean as much information from them on why these two local party leaders believed they way they did. While the details of our conversation will remain private, at no time did I feel like Daniel going into the Lions Den. Call it courage. Call it whatever you like. I call it a tremendous learning experience…
… I felt like Daniel at other times though, especially when I was eating breakfast or lunch across the table from many people who are supposed to be on my side of the political spectrum. Most of our conversations centered on my lack of involvement in the local party and how that lack of involvement would be a hindrance for me. Hardly anyone seemed very interested in my views on the pension crisis in Pennsylvania or why there has been little activity in addressing the property tax burden in the Commonwealth. Instead of seeking office, I was repeatedly told to first volunteer at a polling place or help out at a party banquet. Unfortunately, my 18 years of private sector business experience or my extensive community involvement pales into comparison to handing out political flyers. Don’t get my wrong, the parties need volunteers in those areas and they are important in order to get the message out; however, I fail to see how those jobs are a prerequisite for running for an office in Lancaster County…
…what I love about Lancaster County is the farming community and its work ethic. As I am driving through Elizabeth and Warwick Townships these days, many from the farming community are out in their fields preparing the soil for this year’s crops. I have learned much from the farmers. In order to realize a good yield in the fall, they begin by preparing their land before they plant their seeds. After planting, the farmers must meticulously tend to their fields seemingly each day. The sun may shine brilliantly during some days of the growing season, which allows for growth. Still other days bring storms that may cause some damage to the field, which calls for mending. Finally, when the first leaves begin to change color, the farmers begin their harvest, which will be only as good as their preparation in early spring and their attentiveness during the growing season…
…recently, I made a very difficult decision of leaving a position that I thoroughly enjoyed; but as a good friend of mine told me recently, “God is freeing up your time for something better.” I’m in a growing season right now. The seed has been planted. I am eagerly looking forward to this fall’s harvest. The breadth of my harvest depends on how I cultivate everything this summer. No matter what, I will be courageous when talking about my convictions and kind to everyone, even to those who do not agree with me.
Believe.Act.Serve, like He did.
Reedy is (getting) Ready
… I felt like Daniel at other times though, especially when I was eating breakfast or lunch across the table from many people who are supposed to be on my side of the political spectrum. Most of our conversations centered on my lack of involvement in the local party and how that lack of involvement would be a hindrance for me. Hardly anyone seemed very interested in my views on the pension crisis in Pennsylvania or why there has been little activity in addressing the property tax burden in the Commonwealth. Instead of seeking office, I was repeatedly told to first volunteer at a polling place or help out at a party banquet. Unfortunately, my 18 years of private sector business experience or my extensive community involvement pales into comparison to handing out political flyers. Don’t get my wrong, the parties need volunteers in those areas and they are important in order to get the message out; however, I fail to see how those jobs are a prerequisite for running for an office in Lancaster County…
…what I love about Lancaster County is the farming community and its work ethic. As I am driving through Elizabeth and Warwick Townships these days, many from the farming community are out in their fields preparing the soil for this year’s crops. I have learned much from the farmers. In order to realize a good yield in the fall, they begin by preparing their land before they plant their seeds. After planting, the farmers must meticulously tend to their fields seemingly each day. The sun may shine brilliantly during some days of the growing season, which allows for growth. Still other days bring storms that may cause some damage to the field, which calls for mending. Finally, when the first leaves begin to change color, the farmers begin their harvest, which will be only as good as their preparation in early spring and their attentiveness during the growing season…
…recently, I made a very difficult decision of leaving a position that I thoroughly enjoyed; but as a good friend of mine told me recently, “God is freeing up your time for something better.” I’m in a growing season right now. The seed has been planted. I am eagerly looking forward to this fall’s harvest. The breadth of my harvest depends on how I cultivate everything this summer. No matter what, I will be courageous when talking about my convictions and kind to everyone, even to those who do not agree with me.
Believe.Act.Serve, like He did.
Reedy is (getting) Ready
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