It was a beautiful day. It was one of the Berkshire’s “aren’t we lucky” days. I went to the dump, the post office, and bank — the usual run — and I was thinking. If I had the pick of all jobs, what job would I want?

I decided I would be the person who gives the dog a bone. What fun. And the response? Unconditional love, licks, and wags. What job satisfaction — best job in the world.

I would not run for office — no licks and wags. I was advised, “Don’t be the first to say why you are running. That just gives the opposition material to attack you with.”

Let’s not do that. Let’s not be those people. We’re Stockbridge. We know each other, we rub shoulders every day. I don’t say we need licks and wags, but let’s not go negative. 

I thank everyone who volunteers to work for this town. I thank those willing to run for elected office (it’s tough and expensive). I thank those willing to step up and volunteer, and those who accept an appointment (they don’t get licks and wags as often as criticism.) Their willingness is how we continue to govern ourselves. I thank them all and that sure includes Gary Johnston.

Oh gosh, I was also told, “don’t mention your opponent’s name.”

I said, “that’s silly. Honest, they all know his name.”

I am ignoring the advice and taking the risk. I am going first; exercising my right as a candidate to post in Stockbridge Updates and tell you the voters why I am running. I invite, entreat, all candidates to take advantage of SU. Introduce yourselves to the voters. Encourage supporters to write letters. We will print them all (unless they contain ad homonym attacks). An educated electorate is our best defense against any who would rule over us or tear us down.

I believe in Stockbridge exceptionalism. I see what goes on in national politics, but I believe that’s just not us. I am going with that.

So, I will end where I began — aren’t we lucky to live here? Stay positive. Risk, trust, that your neighbors will too.