“…to the best of my ability.”
In January’s news message I shared briefly about being sworn into office on the 5th. Since then I’ve had some time to reflect on that morning as I and several of your Marion County leaders were sworn in after being elected this past November. We were surrounded by friends, family and co-workers who witnessed our commitment to uphold the US Constitution and the Constitution of the State of Oregon.
I took the oath with my wife Judy standing by my side. As I repeated the words, I was overcome with humility and a deeper understanding of the responsibility that was being placed upon my shoulders. The words in the oath that always make me stop and ponder are “to the best of my ability.” I know that God has created each one of us with unique talents and abilities. I do not see my own abilities to be capable of doing all the things that your county government is being asked to perform for its citizens. This pondering pause helps remind me that I can only do what is asked of me with the guidance and wisdom of those whom God has placed in my life.
As your former state representative and now your county commissioner, I understand that I am only capable of serving with your input, support and encouragement. I will continue to serve with the realization that not everyone is going to agree with all the decisions I make. My decisions will be made on the premise of what is “the best” for our entire county. They will be made with a heart of service and conviction “to the best of my ability.”
We face many challenges today, and in the future, as individuals, families, businesses, and government bodies. The values I bring to office will be reflected in my attitude of always trying to find ways to improve ourselves, to educate ourselves, and to apply ourselves in ways that will meet these challenges. It is through each one of us acting on what is in our direct control that will help our community as a whole to meet these challenges head on with confidence and solutions. Our future is dependent on each one of us acting “to the best of my ability” in all that we do.
I hope you will join me in raising your right hand and pledging to make a difference “to the best of my ability” for the rest of 2015 and beyond.
p.s. here I am with my fellow elected officials:
