The Past Doesn't Have to Repeat Itself

Today is a happy day for me. Let me explain why.

When I was in jr. high school I had visions of being an SBO, or Studen Body Officer. I never wanted to be a cheerleader, work on the yearbook staff, or play any sports - nope, all I wanted was to be in student government.

The time came for elections and the first thing one had to do to run was get a petition and have 30 or so signatures. Once that was completed, the administration would interview each candidate and narrow the field down. It was so simple.

I eagerly went to the office and got my petition paper and hurried off to the cafeteria to start getting my signatures. And, that's when I overheard someone say: "I saw Angel in the office getting a petition. What is she thinking? Nobody is going to vote for her!"

I'd like to say that I ignored the comment, got my signatures, turned in my paperwork, wowed the administration and won my office. But, that's not what happened. Instead I ripped up my petition paper without one single signature and threw it away. I never tried out again.

And, to this day, that is the biggest regret of my life. Hands down.

BUT, I am so proud of Skins, who after just one month in junior high decided that she was going to try out for student government. I encouraged her and she followed through. Today she turned in her petition, loaded with signatures, to the school counselor and now awaits her interview slot. Even if she doesn't make it into student government, she'll never have to go through her life wondering "What if?"

I'm so proud of her. Win or lose, she took the first step... and that's more than her dear old mom dared to do. Vote for Skins!!!