As election night nears and the campaigning starts to wind down, I’ve been reflecting on this wild ride I hopped on this past May. They call it the campaign “trail” for a reason. Parts are straight and narrow, some wide open, and other parts are twisted and circuitous…and there are many forks in the road. It’s been a journey for sure, and one that has mostly brought me pleasure—for a multitude of reasons.
First and foremost are the people I met along the way. I instigated numerous meetings with a variety of people—from residents, property owners, businesses, city officials (past and present), experts, volunteers, and, yes, even my opponents and some of their supporters.
I want to thank each and every one of them for “taking my call” and taking the time out to tell me their stories and perspectives, educate me about all the nuances, and, most of all, encourage me. I’ve received unexpected support from some of the most surprising places. “Surprising” because some have labeled me “the outsider” (even though I’ve had a home here for 22 years). I think I get this label because I’m not the status quo, and I don’t have an established reputation—good or bad—around town. However, I feel this represents many of us who live more quiet lives and don’t feel the need for exposure about how we participate and contribute to the community in our own subtle but impactful ways.
Secondly, I’m inspired by the folks who genuinely care about our community but have felt like their voices have not been heard and are finding new venues to rise above the noise of common communication channels, like social media or speaking up at public events—places where many of the loudest voices reign. Through the campaigning process, I’ve discovered that groups are forming, made up of like-minded people banding together to create louder and more informed voices about the concerns of many. This is democracy at its finest. As a city councilor, this is what I hope to facilitate in the future—creating venues and opportunities for everyone to be heard and encouraging people to formulate their ideas and find their voice so we can bring this community together.
Lastly, and more selfishly, is what I’ve learned about myself. The past several months have been a time of tremendous growth and discovery for me. I’ve learned you can teach an old dog new tricks (i.e., running for office). And that your past can play a tremendous role in what you can contribute to the future. The years I spent as a dentist are paying back in spades in ways I never imagined. I rediscovered how much I love talking with people and hearing about their lives and ideas. I’ve realized how the lessons I’ve learned in my personal and professional life have set me up for the potential to make thoughtful policy decisions that take a number of variables into consideration. And I’ve discovered, once again, a genuine sense of community—an amalgamation of varying knowledge, viewpoints, ambitions and aspirations.
I could go on and on about my experiences along the way, but I think you get the gist. My blog, which chronicles my daily campaign activities, thoughts, and personal stories, can help you fill in the blanks. Please take a look: bit.ly/bradsdailyblog And to read the unsolicited endorsements from people I’ve met on the campaign trail, go to: bit.ly/votingforbrad
Sincerely,
Brad Mayerle
bit.ly/MayerleforManz
