Quality of life depends on quality politicians

She came up to our seats before the program began and started asking questions. Following my instincts, I glanced at the “Woman’s Leadership Workshop” program. Sure enough, there was the name Judith Woop. She was one of several panelists that September morning, all of whom offered words of wisdom.

• “Keep your ears open and your mouth shut. When you open your mouth, do so after having done your homework.” –Gloria Carelli, Chairperson, Morris County Advisory Committee on Women (the program’s sponsor)

• “Power is good because power is something you can do something with.” –Leanna Brown, Senator

• “Be comfortable with yourself... Be engaged in the conversation… Be able to adapt… Be a well-rounded individual.” –Alison McHose, Assemblywoman

• “Bring your life experience to your role in politics.” –Margaret Nordstrom, Freeholder Director

• “You are never going to know everything, so you need to rely on the expertise you come in contact with.” –Deborah Walsh, Executive Director, Center for American Women & Politics

• “Politics is everyone’s job. Everybody needs to have a voice in government.” –Councilwoman Judith Woop, who is running for Mayor of Butler (and who has invited me to help hone her message and review/polish/format campaign materials)

The event was a refreshing break from the usual cynicism associated with politics. These women were a force for good, committed to having a positive effect on their communities. They reminded me that government is of the people and for the people; that its purpose is to solve problems.

Why should women become involved in politics? Because shying away means denying our neighbors and nation of our talents. As women, we bring a different perspective to policy making.

Ray Anderson says the environment needs us to reach positions of power, noting, “The ascendancy of women will offset the bottom-line thinking of men.”