When the Call to Serve Comes

Sitting quietly in my Emerge Maine class a couple of weeks ago, I was listening intently to an Emerge graduate explain the pleasure and pain of running for state office - and losing. Suddenly, from nowhere, a voice in my head yelled, "RUN"!  Not run out the door, but RUN FOR OFFICE!  Now, you might think that the reason for being in the Emerge Maine class of 2010 is for that exact reason. Aren't we all, as active Democratic women, here to train to serve? Well, yeah... but now? This year? That was NOT in my plan.

My thoughts were more along the lines of "well, maybe in 2012 when my district representative seat is open, and if my work winds down a bit, or maybe I'll help out behind the scene on someone else's campaign." This year I'm busy! My career is in one of its up cycles and I am in the midst of three big creative projects. I travel a lot for my work, plus I now have a part-time job at home doing something else I am passionate about. People are depending on me. But for some reason, I am not listening to myself.  I found myself telling family members and friends that I was thinking of running for State Representative in my district.  Then I met with the district Democratic chair. And then I drove to the State House, an hour away, to pick up my clean election petition sheets. Throughout the entire time I was questioning myself but the voice kept saying "RUN" and found myself obeying! 

This is what Emerge Maine does for me. I feel inspired by the women in my class, of all ages and walks of life, recent college grads and retirees and working moms with school age kids. They are all striving to find a way to a better life - not only for themselves, but for their communities. I am inspired by those who have gone before and those who are currently serving, who come to our class and share the truth - the whole truth - about being a public servant. They have all sacrificed so much to serve their towns, state, and indeed our nation. So yes, I am running! The passion in my heart has spoken louder than the logic in my head, and win or lose, I know this campaign will be a truly incredible experience. Wish me luck! And to all my Emerge comrades who are following that same loud, unrelenting voice - you, go girls!!

By Cindy Bullens, Emerge Maine Class of 2010

www.cindybullens.com
www.myspace.com/cindybullensmusic