On January 3, 2014, I picked up qualifying papers to run for East Ridge Judge. I have been campaigning for 7 months and it all comes to an exciting end tomorrow. Win or lose, it has been an experience that has changed my life for the better. People have dedicated countless hours of their time helping me go door-to-door meeting people. I have met some of the kindest and most interesting people. People have welcomed me into their lives and their homes. These people have shared their life stories with me in the privacy of their living rooms. Stories of war and falling in love decades ago. Personal family stories. Stories about challenges they have faced and their triumphs. Stories about our city long before I was ever born. Sadly, one man has died since I met him. Total strangers have gone out of their way to come to my office to meet with me and let me know they support me and will be voting for me. I have been humbled by peoples kindness and generosity. Our city has truly shined in a way that most people dont get to see. There are some great people in East Ridge and meeting all of these people has been a life changing experience. Their stories have now become a part of my story and I am deeply grateful for that. If I have learned anything from this experience that I can share with you, it is this: There are great people everywhere, kind and compassionate people, and most of them want nothing from you but your time. Take a moment out of your life every once in a while to listen, to care, and to help those you can. And let people do the same for you. So tomorrow another journey begins. I am ready. Thank you for your support and encouragement along the way. It means more than you could ever know. Sincerely, Ryan Hanzelik
Posted on: Wed, 06 Aug 2014 16:14:58 +0000