Spent that last few days doing a variety of pre-election related activities. I’m a tad under the weather with a cold, but have been carrying on under the advice of my friends to be careful and not over do it. I’ve also been getting used to the rumour-mill and the nastier side of politcal life. This week has been a bit of a challenge, I’ll admit.

It feels somewhat like an initiation of sorts. Not unlike my experience as a high school rookie on the field hockey team. The older, more experienced players felt it necessary to inflict a painful ‘hazing’ on the rookies to show them who was boss. I won’t bother with the details, but I assure you it stung.

All stinging aside, I am learning day by day just how this whole game is played. My skin is getting thicker and thicker by the minute. I have come to accept that one must don their armour whilst venturing out into the politcal arena. Doning armour is new for me, and I’m not all that comfortable with it, but it is necessary. Having a sense of humour helps, and having supportive friends is essential.

So onward and upward I go. The good work of meeting the people of Stratford-Kinlock has been most rewarding. This is my favourite part. I am very encouraged by the warm and friendly faces at the door. People are very welcoming are glad when someone shows up to listen to their concerns.

It’s about relationships. People want to be heard and they want to trust the person they are sharing their thoughts and ideas with. These are the people I am focused on. These are the people that matter.

(check out the comments in the post below. There is a good discussion about MMPR and women in politics)