The "Up" Side

Enough complaining. After looking back through the few posts I've written, I'm realizing that I'm headed in a very negative direction! When the campaign so far has really been a very positive experience, it's about time I shed some light on the pleasant surprises.

As I mentioned in The Letter Behind the Name, for every negative person my husband encounters at the door, there are 100-200 voters that are anything but negative. But the truly pleasant experiences are the unexpected compliments and smiles.

A few weeks ago, we went to the National Night Out event at Pax Christi Church. We were grabbing some cookies and water for our son when my husband was pulled aside by a woman that was volunteering at the event. The encounter went a little something like this:

Woman: Hi Mike, it's great to see you again.

My Husband: It's great to see you too (in a slightly confused voice). I apologize, I recognize your face but can't place your name.

Woman: I'm sure you don't remember me, we met months ago at the Republican Caucuses. I was so impressed by you that I've been telling all my friends about you. You met my husband last week when you were at our door. (She revealed her husband's name and their address)

My Husband: (After remembering the house) I had a great conversation with your husband. It's such a pleasure to meet you, again (with a grin!)

Woman: I really want to thank you for running. We are so excited to support a candidate like you.

My Husband: Thank you so much.

I was left speechless. I'm not even the candidate, but it's very humbling to have someone praise someone you love for something they are very passionate about. I was really proud of my husband at that moment.

And then, a few weeks later, we were at the park with our children when another distinct moment took place. There was another younger woman chasing her toddler around the playground. My husband recognized her as she walked up and immediately greeted her. Having no idea who she was, I once again dropped to the background to observe.

My Husband: Hey, how are you?

Woman: Good, and you? (looking a little confused)

My Husband: I'm sorry, are you *****'s wife, *****. I'm Mike Rolih.

Woman: Oh my goodness, I knew you looked familiar. It was great to meet you at the door last week. My husband has been talking about you for months now.

My Husband: Good things I hope!

Woman: (in a more serious tone) I think what you're doing is great. It takes a lot of time and dedication to do what you're doing, and I know with 2 little ones at home it can't be easy, but we are so grateful that you're running.

My Husband: My 2 little ones at home are a big reason why I'm running.

Woman: Thank you

The conversation continued into small business and toddler talk, but once again I was caught without a word to say. My husband has been working way harder than I have through this campaign. But, I can say from my end, that all the late nights and time at home with 2 children by myself is well worth it when I hear people make comments like that.

I guess when we attend events and visit with voters and delegates, I somewhat expect to hear comments, good and bad, about my husband running for office. It's when we're doing everyday family things that these little comments catch me by surprise. These people don't have to acknowledge my husband at these times, they don't even have to say anything nice to him. But they go above and beyond to let him know how they feel, and in turn, make me feel like this is all worth while.

So this post goes to all the voters and supporters. Thank YOU! Your comments and support is the reason my husband hasn't and won't give up. I guess when you're at home with the person you married, you forget that when they decide to run for public office, that guy (or gal for some of you) becomes something to more than just you and your family.