Practicing a relational government
This week was a frustrating one. As we approach the finish of this campaign season there have been disturbing signs of “politicking” that sadden me. There were two “hit pieces” (sensationalized, defamatory mailers sent “anonymously”) sent to cripple two of the candidates. There were also numerous false We Chat posts that attacked Council members and candidates, including me. I was so upset that I crafted my own response which I posted then deleted because I saw that by writing those words, I was doing the same thing. I was not projecting the person that I am and hope to remain, regardless of any political advantage I might gain.
I have sought to serve this City through relational means. I have attempted to reach out to our community to show that I have a proven record of unifying people, young and old, students, parents, administrators, union members, seniors, faith based organizations, people of diverse financial strata, of all cultures, colors and national heritage. My efforts are to reach people and work to achieve what is best for all of us. That should be the mission for our City. There is dialogue that edifies and builds our resolve to do the hard work required to overcome the tough times that lay ahead. And there is dialogue that is self-serving and seeks to tear down some to raise up others.
I have been counseled by some to abandon some of my activities to focus more on myself and my campaign. I have chosen not to do that. The people of Arcadia are my campaign. I am including my schedule from last week because I feel that it exemplifies my priority of people over politics. Arcadia is its people. Our love of people should drive us to do our best. Relationships take time, patience, the ability to listen and see all sides, and the willingness to make, communicate and stand by principled decisions even if they are not comfortable or personally advantageous.
I feel that I have done that in the short time that I have had. I have developed bonds with my colleagues, the city staff, our police and fire, and most importantly with our residents. When issues arose, (e.g. concerns expressed by the fire department) I reached out to them to better understand how the City can help, then did more research, then took their concerns with me into situations whenever I had the chance. You will see positives in the next few months from the conversations that took place whether I am in office or not.
Spending time with our seniors
I have chosen to spend time with the seniors in our community to gain insight, wisdom, perspective and because I really love them. I am a senior too. I live on a fixed income. I support my family with my pension. I also spend time with the homeless. On their behalf I do my homework, (meetings, visiting other communities to see their solutions), then see how various strategies stack up with our specific community. Many of the plans don’t fit us, but you must do the work to know. That’s where I have been.
Rhetoric, promises and even endorsements should not determine this election. Actions should. Committees and meetings are good, but relationships facilitate real change. Change happens when people decide that the things that bring us together are more important than the things that tear us apart. You can’t legislate caring. You have to show up.
I am blessed with the time to do it. I am blessed with the opportunities to do it. I am blessed with the experience to do it. I did it in the past, I am doing it now, and will do it in the future. I am asking for your vote to ensure that we can build our future together.
Thank you for listening,
Michael Danielson