Decisions, Decisions.

They have to be made before any action can take place. And, well, I know some people may think it is too early to decide to run for Governor of Maine in 2014, but I do not have the money for an expensive campaign. I need to start earlier than a "typical" candidate in order to garner enough support. What I do have, are unique ideas and an understanding of what personal struggle is.

I have suffered immense loss during my lifetime, as have many others. My sister was severely physically disabled and passed away at the age of 15. My brother was diagnosed with schizophrenia when he was 19 and succumbed to a heroin overdose at the age of 26. My brother also served prison time as a result of one of his "psychotic breaks" he never received rehabilitation for his illness while incarcerated. Despite a dysfunctional childhood and the loss I have experienced, I have continued to seek my purpose in life. Having children of my own is a piece of my larger purpose. I want my children to grow up to become successful and well-adjusted, but I also believe compassion is one of the most important morals I can teach them.

I have considered serving the public by running for political office for quite some time. I usually consider the fact that I cannot stand having my integrity questioned, so because of that reason alone, I may not be the ideal candidate. However, my moral and ethical constitution makes me a perfect candidate to represent everyone, not just those that serve my interest. The only interest I have is to make life better for as many people as possible by serving as an advocate for voices that often go unheard.

Recently, I had the opportunity to discover my own voice with the help of someone else. Lady Gaga asked her fans via Twitter to record a video about DADT. As someone with personal experience regarding the military's "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, I created a video in that regard. I was so incredibly fortunate that after she saw hundreds of videos, she added my video to her official YouTube channel directly after her video. I have never met Lady Gaga, but I know I have her support because of her actions.

Shortly after Lady Gaga tweeted the link to her DADT playlist, I decided to do something more for this cause. I am speaking at a DADT rally on Veteran's Day about my experience regarding the policy.

I can no longer settle for "politics as usual" I intend to represent the people by listening to what everyone has to say; what I have to say is much less important.

Recently, I have tried to determine why my family discontinued to be active in Politics. My 4th great grandfather, Roger Sherman, was very active in fighting for our freedoms. I have to wonder if my family became disenchanted with politics as I am. The only way the current system will change is if people who are disenchanted become politically active again. 

I will need a lot of help to be successful in this endeavor. I have friends with many different political ideologies, which I do not believe are "black and white." But most importantly, I am prepared to listen.

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