OPED: Attwood promises commitment

Submitted By: Amy Attwood, City Council candidate, Ward 4

A Personal Reflection on Commitment

Commitment. This is of great importance to me because commitment is a value that has characterized my life. Through my years, I have always valued my commitments to the organizations I become involved in. I devote myself fully to the projects I take on and the positions I have held. For example, when I was asked to serve another term on the leadership team for a local nonprofit organization, I declined because I knew I would not be able to give the time needed to be an effective leader if I ran for City Council.

The commitments I make to achieve a goal are important to me. Marathon runners can understand the level of commitment required to not only train for and complete one marathon, but several marathons as I have.

I am committed to helping others achieve their dreams by breaking down barriers to success. This takes place through our business Summit Xperience, where my husband and I mentor and guide people, including those with a disability, to climb the highest mountains in the world. Sometimes they will stumble and fall but I will never give up on them. I will pick them up, brush them off and continue on together.

My commitment to work hard and connect with voters is what has motivated me to walk each block of each precinct in Ward 4. I believe it is important to build relationships with citizens and let them know I value their opinions and will be available, not just during an election, but as I serve on Council.

I have made these commitments because of my desire to have a positive impact on the lives of my family, friends and community. It is this same commitment that has motivated me to run for City Council. As I began this endeavor I made a commitment to run a positive campaign. My opponent and I even made a commitment to each other that during the campaign we would, in his words, “play nice on the campaign trail”. I am the candidate who has kept that commitment.

The opportunity to serve on City Council is a trust that calls for the commitment to always do what is best for Lakewood and its citizens. I will keep that commitment throughout my term as your City Councilor. I ask for your vote, as I commit to always work for a positive future for Lakewood.