Never before have I been interested in politics. I always vote in Presidential elections, but have never paid much attention to city elections. I never really though of the impact in which these candidates could potentially have on my life. Until now.
I started paying attention a bit while getting to know Diane Sheehan. She spoke of a few issues that I could relate to and that sparked my interest but, I never thought I would be a part of this or any election actually. Until Paul Shea announced his run for Ward 3 Alderman.
I knew Paul from events like Fancy Friday, and considering we live a few streets apart, I was able to get to know him a bit better. Something about Paul made me want to run out and scream on rooftops to tell people to vote. He made politics interesting for me. He awoke something in me that made me want to get to the bottom of issues and learn more. He made me believe that there was a better Nashua waiting for us, we just had cultivate it.
I am sure that I am not the only person that got involved in city politics for the first time this year. I didn't really have anything to offer Paul except for my time. He was always gracious and happy whenever anyone could help out. Anyone looking at him could see how much he wanted this seat, and how much it meant to him to be able to share his ideas and work together to make things work.
Never in my life could I have imagined standing outside for numerous hours holding signs. I had two boys at home with Dad last night wondering where I was, but they knew this was important. The anticipation of everything was so intense, it made me want to laugh and cry at the same time.
I will not talk about the results concerning Paul because it's not over yet. Because for it to be over means that the ideal candidate for this position didn't get it. To me that is an injustice to people in Ward 3. I want to say thank you to Paul. He opened up a whole new world for me. He inspired me. And to think this all started at a Fancy Friday! :)
