LtE: Title: Love and Service

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Dear Fellow Community Members,

I am hoping we have more than the predicted turnout for the special election for the vacant Select Board seat on May 14th. I know we all have a lot on our plate. And I know that politics can be exhausting. I have needed my own intentional space over time from what seems like endless and unnecessary drama. When it comes time to vote, however, we all need to show up.

In life, when things get overwhelming – be that work, family, or even local politics – and I have a decision to make about which direction to go, I have a personal practice based in mindfulness. I sit with the question: What is most essential in this moment? I ask this question of myself because I am human and it is easy for me to get defensive and caught up in my own stories – so I am the first to admit that I am not always successful at this practice! But ultimately, we belong to each other. My answer to what is most essential is love and service.

The reason I share this with you is because love and service are what drives Tara Gregory too. I have never written a Letter to the Editor on behalf of a candidate, but I am compelled to do so for Tara.

I first met Tara a few months ago over a coffee at Caffe Nero. And of course, we talked through the issues facing our community, which you can learn more about at their website.

Meeting with Tara that day was like a breath of fresh air. It was clear that Tara is uninterested in drama. Rather, Tara is interested in people. They listened intently to my concerns with their calm and even demeanor. Maybe the best thing I heard Tara say is “Let’s make meetings boring again.” Tara’s approach is simple: What do you need, neighbor?

Turnout is expected to be low on May 14th. I implore you to make a plan to vote on May 14th at the RMHS Field House between 7 AM and 8 PM. Please encourage your neighbors to do the same. Our community needs Tara!

Sincerely,

Theresa Wiggins
Terrace Park