well, that went better than aniticpated

I did it!

The first Meet the Candidate event last night was, at least for me, a success. I measure success in this as a personal triumph, not as much related to the actual election. This was a challenge to myself. For days, I had been preparing mentally. Telling myself I would be composed, I would be friendly, I would look people in the eye. I would be confident and not give in to nerves or panic. Not once did I stammer and stutter in confusion because I lost my ability to think on my feet. So for me, major success. My voice cracked and quavered a little in the my opening statement and that was okay. But once I started answering questions, any nervousness I had just drifted away.

The group was small, maybe 35 people. It sure looked like more when they were all staring at me from the other side of the table. Everyone was pleasant and courteous. The questions were solid and since I had bounced ideas around with others as I crafted my responses, my thoughts were in order when it was my turn. It was gratifying to see people nodding their heads at various points as I responded. It made me feel that the connection was made and my views were thoughtfully received.

There were a few chuckles, some good natured ribbing and thankfully there was no bickering among the candidates. After all, these Board of Education elections can be hotbeds of intrigue and scandal.

When the Q&A was over, people I had never met before came over to shake hands and tell me that I had their support. I was completely surprised how good that felt. How absolutely invigorating it was to know that maybe I would get the chance to make an impact on our school system.

And let's not forget a fundamental phase of preparing for this type of event. The outfit. New tailored chocolate slacks, new snazzy black & brown shoes, a tailored lilac wrap blouse with a chocolate shell underneath. A beaded necklace in complimentary colors to round it all out. When put together it screamed, Kickin' Ass & Takin' Names.

Which I did. Gloriously.