Opinion

No calling more noble

Friday, January 18, 2002

There is still plenty of time for candidates to throw their hats in the ring for this year's election.

Incumbents have until Feb. 15, and challengers have until March 1 to file.

It takes a special person to place his name before the voters, and offer to serve in public office.

Not only must she pay the filing fee and financial disclosure documents, but the candidate also faces the possibility of personal attacks and rejection by the voters.

And, of course, the election isn't the end of the challenge. Once in office, officials are subject to increased public scrutiny and criticism for the actions they take.

That doesn't count the hours of time it takes for public meetings and private study of complicated issues.

It is too easy for those of us on the outside, media included, to sit back and question the judgment and motives of those who are in elected positions of responsibility. Those of us who have not held such posts might be surprised how our attitudes change once we have the responsibility that goes along with the power entrusted to us by the voters.

Now is the time for good people, with sound judgment and thick skins, to file for local elected posts.

No act is more important for our system of government to function and our way of life to continue.

Despite the disrespect too many of us feel for those in public office, there is no calling more noble.

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