Day 4 - Nelson Mandela

Thinking too well of people often allows them to be better than they otherwise would.  - Nelson Mandela

Day 3 - Lou Holtz

Do right. Do your best. Treat others as you want to be treated. – Lou Holtz

Day 2 - Albert Einstein

Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile - Albert Einstein

Day 1 - President Jimmy Carter

Whether the borders that divide us are picket fences or national boundaries, we are neighbors in a global community.  – President Jimmy Carter

Why the blog?

I have worked in politics and for non-profit organizations professionally since the age of 24 and I have never felt that my opinion or beliefs matter more than anyone else’s. I have chosen to work passionately for things that I believe in rather than fill others’ ears with my words. I feel I grow to my best from listening rather than giving my opinion.  I believe every mistake is a lesson and every achievement is something to be built upon.  I am also not one who normally participates in the public sharing of opinions and beliefs…but here I am.

Since President Jimmy Carter announced in mid-August, 2015 that his cancer had spread to his brain, I have been appalled by the rhetoric and, in some instances, the gloating over the his cancer.  I was 5 when he was elected so I don't have any strong feelings toward him as a President, other than anyone who holds that office deserves respect. 

When I read that people are “cheering” and think that cancer is “karma” for his policies as a President of the United States - I am in a society where I no longer want to raise my children.

Rather than rant, rave and pound my fists, I will give my children a gift.  For the next 365 days, I will find words of wisdom from others that I hope they will some day understand, find relevant and will speak louder than those who wish diseases and death upon others for their opinions and policies. 

This is for you H and P, I hope the world gives you everything you deserve and more.  You are precious, smart and so, so perceptive.  Let your parents read these quotes to you day by day and we will learn what goodness, grace and dignity there is in the world.