Wednesday, May 6, 2015

What I've learned about Public Service

In terms of how my organization demonstrates public service, I think there is no better example than what can be found at the Arizona State Senate. While many would ignorantly argue that working as a senator is nothing more than egotistical endeavor to find ways to grasp for power, I would argue quite the opposite. The men and women who serve in the Arizona State Senate work tirelessly on behalf of their constituents at a salary that is less than a first year public school teacher in this state. Granted they only serve full time when the Senate is in session, which is only for about 4-5 months in the spring, the important thing to note is simply that they are not in it for the money. Many of them drive long distances each week to and from the capitol to their districts in towns I’ve never even heard of, but regardless, still make the long trip. Many of these serving I have had the privilege of getting to know personally, and I am able to hear their stories of what they’ve encountered with constituents. Republican or Democrat, one of the very few things that they all share is the basic empathy they have for the constituents and fellow Arizonans.


I admire the men and women who make up the Arizona Senate, and I don’t limit that admiration to just the those who are elected. The great staffs that all contribute to this chambers functioning all are vital in one way or another. From the janitorial staff to the Sergeant-at-arms, these people are my heroes, and I couldn’t ask for a better place to learn what it means to be in public service.

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