Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Thank You

I've been staring at a blank screen since December, trying to find a way to share the words that have been clear in heart for months.  All the emotion and gratitude I want to convey can't seem to find a way to my keyboard.

I've decided not to run for Council in November. 

I made this decision over the Winter break and informed my colleagues, family, "Team Ali" volunteers, many of the friends I have made over the past 2 and 1/2 years...but I've been stumbling over the words that make it official.

If I could only find the words to express what an honour it has been to work with Esquimalt I would have written this months ago. Imperfect and inadequate as this will be...I simply feel I cannot wait any longer. It is time for me to encourage others to step forward and serve our community in this way.

I do want to reassure everyone that I will continue to work hard for Esquimalt until the end of my term and far beyond.  In April of 2007, I stepped to the microphone in Council Chambers for the very first time. That day I made a promise to my community to be involved in decisions affecting me and my family. That hasn't changed. I will still be a familiar face in Chambers.  I will just be sitting in a different chair. Esquimalt will continue to be the place I am proud to call my home...and I will always care about what happens in my home.

Above all, what I hold close, are the friendships and relationships that will be lasting reminders of this intense time in my life.  Ties strengthened and forged under pressure that I will always treasure. Thank you for sharing this journey with me.

xoAli