This week, I was invited to talk to community groups in Wichita, Overland Park and Olathe about the work of the Kansas Family Voice of Kansas.
It’s the best part of my job.
The women and men who are part of these groups are special. They come from all walks of life to meetings at civic centers, coffee shops or pizza parlors where they listen to elected officials (and the occasional nonprofit president) describe the issues of the day. Often, they are… colorful characters. They volunteer their time, resources and energy helping candidates get elected. They knock on doors and walk in parades in the hot, summer sun. They write letters and call their elected officials when a big vote happens. They are the counterweights to the special interest groups spending big money to exert influence.
When Abby and I first moved to Kansas, I decided to get involved in my local political group. I didn’t know what issues were facing our city. I couldn’t even tell you the name of my state senator or state representative. But I showed up to a first meeting, then another the next month, and another after that. It took time, but eventually I learned who was who and what was what.
Now that I’m one of the people speaking to these groups, I always try to begin and end my talks with gratitude for those in attendance. They remind me of those who followed Christ. There may not be anything outwardly notable about them. Indeed, they are often the last people who would describe themselves as special. Yet, because of their willingness to be part of the mission, they are world-changers.
If you aren’t yet involved in a local community group, may I suggest you find one? Go to a meeting. Introduce yourself around. Get in the game. You won’t regret it.
Sincerely,
Eric
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