Why Local Politics Matter More
A few weeks ago I was in a passionate conversation with my friend Kevin about changing the greater world, and he rattles off a quote from The Wind in the Willows (by Kenneth Grahame):
“Beyond the Wild Wood comes the Wild World,” said the Rat. “And that’s something that doesn’t matter, either to you or me. I’ve never been there, and I’m never going, nor you either, if you’ve got any sense at all.”
I believe Kevin and Rat are on to something.
This sage advice has become a rallying cry for me, as of late. But the Wild World incessently knocks on my digital door with news notifications and social media alerts. The Wild World begs, nay, barges into my brain space with fear-infused headlines and anxiety-riddled clickbait. The Wild World demands I pay attention and…click something that puts money into the pocket of some media mogul or corporate shareholders. The Wild World does not ask me to help with the solutions to any of the drama it creates, but it does want me to comment. Oh, and make that comment a juicy one filled with anger and rage continuing the division not the dialogue. The Wild World just wants to keep me on the hook, like an addict, until the next click.
But I don’t want to just READ about the latest tragedy or social injustice, I want to fix it. And alas, the Wild World isn’t interested in a solution. Division rules the day. And fear is the payday.
So, how in the world can I affect change in the Wild World?
My best opportunity to be a change-agent is in the smallest setting. I’m not sure what that means for you, but for me, I’m most likely to be successful, first within my family, maybe then my co-workers, then my church, and then the local community that I’m honored to serve.
This is why I still read the local papers and watch the local governments in action (Board of Commissioners, City Councils, etc.) Because, I know these people. Our town is NOT too big that I can’t know and have relationships with the people who make decisions. And my voice can still be heard.
I could scream from the top of my lungs but not be heard on a national level, or even a state level, currently. But, I can certainly stay plugged in, weigh in, and buy in to what is going on locally. And you can too!!!
But, I can certainly stay plugged in, weigh in, and buy in to what is going on locally. And you can too!!!
This became abundantly apparent to me after launching this blog less than a month ago. Over three thousand folks have accessed the site and read the material. Most all of the traffic is local. THAT is fantastic news to me. I want to be a part of affecting change at the local level.
From those three thousand page views, over one hundred teachers have reached out directly with perspective and suggestions. THAT is fantastic news to me. I’m able to hear from you and collect your thoughts and ideas. Your collective voice then helps me to make presentations to the Board and the Superintendent, and helps us create policy that has the potential to reform our school system. THAT excites me!!!
You are making a difference!
And while it might not seem like you and I are being heard in the Wild World, you most certainly are being heard in the Wild Wood of Newton County. THANK YOU for reaching out to me. I need to hear from you. Keep the emails coming. Let’s continue the conversation on the local level and let’s make the change we want to see for our children.
For more on my position about “keeping education local” click here (scroll down to “Initiatives” and expand the “Local Education” section.)
To partner financially and help me run a successful campaign this summer/fall for re-election, click here to donate.
