AAC F A M I L Y & F R I E N D S
within us the divine image we have unlimited potential. We know that it is God “in whom we live and move and have our being.” One of life’s greatest challenges is to find your true purpose in life — vocationally. Confucius, a Chinese teacher, editor, politi- cian and philosopher, said many years ago, “Choose work that you love and you’ll never have to work another day in your life.” I am so blessed to have spent the last 35 years in public service. Public service gives you the opportunity to be what you are, and to become what you are capable of becoming. I have had an extremely successful county government career and hope to continue that career for a while longer because of the passion I have to serve and make a difference. In fact, the only reason to be in politics is public service. Tere’s no other reason. If you are currently serving in county government, maybe it is because you have found your true vocational purpose in life like I did many years ago. I truly hope so. Our people need dedicated men and women serving them in the realm of county government — no doubt the closest and most responsive gov- ernment to the people. Dedication to the task calls for a lot of hard work and sacrifice. Arnold Schwarzenegger said, “Help others and give some- thing back. I guarantee you will discover that while public service improves the lives and the world around you, its greatest reward is the enrichment and new meaning it will bring your own life.” Margaret Chase Smith, a Republican who served the state of
Maine both as a U.S. Representative and a Senator said, “Public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It
» » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » »
must be a complete dedication to the people.” Tat requires total dedication and attention to detail — not like Marvin’s preacher. Marvin was in the hospital on his death bed. Te family called Marvin’s preacher to be with him in his final moments. As the preacher stood by the bed, Marvin’s condition seemed to deteriorate, and Marvin motioned for someone to quickly pass him a pen and paper. Te preacher quickly got a pen and paper and lovingly handed it to Marvin. But before he had a chance to read the note, Marvin died. Te preacher, feeling that now wasn’t the right time to read it, put the note in his jacket pocket. It was at the funeral while speaking that the preacher suddenly remembered the note. Reaching deep into his pocket the preacher said, “And you know what, I suddenly remembered that right before Marvin died he handed me a note, and know- ing Marvin I’m sure it was something inspiring that we can all gain from.” With that introduction the preacher ripped out the note and opened it. Te note said, “Hey, you are standing on my oxygen tube!” Be dedicated, responsive and timely in your public service. Te simple uncluttered desire for living that can’t wait for
tomorrow — that’s the attitude we should all take in our life of public service in county government. As Donald Rumsfeld said, “Enjoy your time in public service. It may well be one of the most interesting and challenging times of your life.” Live a dedicated life of service providing true leadership and
thereby leaving a revered legacy. A blessed life, a rewarding ca- reer — just like tomato basil soup and a grilled cheese sandwich on a cool, crisp day!
COUNTY LINES, WINTER 2016
21
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52