Politics... A Rich Man's Sport

Growing up I was raised by a single mother and as in most single parent households we struggled. I can remember walking for miles in the snow carrying groceries because we had no car or having to hide because one of my classmates was behind us in the grocery store and my mom's food stamps wouldn't tear out of the little book they used to be in. But those struggles made me who I am today; good or bad. Although I still fondly and yet sadly sometimes remember the things I missed out on by not growing up privileged. My favorite thing to do was to watch the Olympics on television. I was able to transport to another time, another place where mere mortals were transformed into almost God-like beings. Summer and winter didn't matter to me. I always dreamed of one day being in the position to compete at that level of any sport. To feel that special even for just a brief moment. But the sports I especially loved I quickly learned were the sports of rich kids. Equestrian. Fencing. Skiing. I knew growing up on free school lunches and clothes from the thrift store that I wouldn't be able to take up any of these sports and that's when I learned that we all must live within our means and with the hand we are dealt and that, unfortunately, we aren't all born with the tools necessary for greatness. Some of us have to work a little harder at it. And now as an adult I find myself yearning for yet another rich man's sport. Politics.

Unlike many young people interested in politics I have no desire for power or connections nor do I feel the need to feel superior to those around me. I, at my core, believe that politics and the democratic process were put in place to create a nation that is not only great but also free, safe, and above all the beacon of hope for the rest of the world to look towards in times of darkness. While I have no desire to ever run for public office myself I do, at times, find those individuals whom I feel represent me and share the same idea for the direction our country should be headed. And that is where is the sport begins. See, my friends, being involved in politics takes more than good intentions. It takes money. Why you ask? Well for one I challenge you to look at any Young Republican group Facebook photo album or attend any well organized Young Republican event and unless you are wearing the latest style from Southern Tide you feel, well, like that same little boy standing in line waiting for your free school lunch. And if you dare to dream to one day actually work on a campaign or even, dare I say it, work for an elected official you must first put in countless (we're talking hundreds) of volunteer hours. Now where does the real world end and volunteering begin?

In the real world we have bills. We have to eat. We have to have a place to live. We have to make sure our guinea pigs bellies are full at night. These things cost money. Now unless you are either born into money or you are lucky enough to live at home with Mommy and Daddy then you live in the real world with the rest of us or what many of us refer to as "purgatory". Desiring to work on a campaign you first must volunteer your time. Which in theory seems easy enough. That is until you factor in your multiple jobs, no gas money and a wardrobe that is less Southern Tide and more Wal Mart chic. See folks, campaigns don't want volunteers who live in the real world, they want those who live with rose colored glasses on because if campaigns truly wanted to be represented by your average working class American then they would make call it "working" instead of "volunteering" and you would be paid accordingly. The system is set up now that unless you are able to think of bills as a Destiny's Child song and not something that comes in the mail every month then you can kiss your chances of ever actually working for a politician goodbye.

Realistically I know my chances of obtaining a paid position on a State or National level political campaign are about the same as me winning an Olympic medal in fencing. It just ain't in the cards.

In the end, the road to hell is paved with good intentions and my good intentions of wanting to be a part of something bigger than myself will ultimately lead me down a path to my own hell. And that hell is having to sit back and watch those who care nothing about change and more about status get ahead in the political world while I, like every other average American, get up each day and pray that today is at least a little better than the day before until we are called home by our creator.

Politics. The world of the possible, the impossible and the vessel for change. That is, if you can afford to sit at the table.

What I have Learned Thus Far

I remember the day so clearly it's as if it just happened. I met my good friend Brad Richardson at Young's Plantation Inn for my very first Florence County Republican Party meeting. There also was a newcomer like myself, Renee Woodberry. Together the three of us sat and observed and after we took it all in, I for one kinda liked it. I viewed politics as the perfect vehicle to carry my ideas and thoughts of change for our country and our state to the next level. I was hooked. Am I still? Read on....

It's been a few years now and I here I sit, still involved, still active. Lately it's been more from the perspective of campaigning as opposed to local politics but still interesting and educational nonetheless. And while I still proudly wear the label of volunteer, having not broken through the threshold of being a full time paid staffer yet, I find it fascinating to watch these "paid guys" in their natural habitat. Whatever I thought I knew about campaigning before this, boy was I wrong. It's a world like no other. The people, the sights, the sounds; all have been full of surprises both good and bad. And sometimes indifferent. (And slightly bizarre)

The first poignant observation from this up and coming, non blue blazer wearing (except for that one time and no, it wont happen again) shiny new politico is this. Everything you need to know about campaigning is not contained in a book nor a classroom. You can't take a course on how to win over voters or read through the chapter on how to persuade people to donate to your campaign during these tough economic times. Because that chapter doesn't exist. While I commend those who spend the majority of their adult lives obtaining advanced degrees in politics, public administration and the like, I have found that when talking with these people, they have lost touch with reality. The world we live in is made up of those who care more about how they are going to make their mortgage payment as opposed to hearing about the history behind the political process. While I think that advanced education would come in handy in Washington writing legislative briefs and press releases, when it comes down to the nitty gritty grassroots efforts needed to actually win, you need to have lived and currently live in the real world to understand what the average voter wants, needs, and desires from a campaign and candidate. As Carrie Bradshaw once said, "When real people fall down in life, they get right back up and keep on walking" Yeah... I went there. 

We are only a few short weeks from the June 12th primary. Campaign signs are being erected, our television sets are being taken over by candidates stating why we should vote for them (thrown in with the occasional baby, bible, and hard hat), and our mailboxes are beginning to fill up with palm cards, invites, and even pairs of scissors. As an outsider looking out from the inside I still hold on to the same ideal I wrote about many moons ago. At the end of the day what matters most to your average voter is not who had the most campaign signs out or who had the slickest commercial, what people want is simple. And free. They want to be part of the process.They want to know they matter. What they think, what they want, what they need. They want to know all of that matters to someone. If you can truly touch someone and make them realize you honestly care about them and what they have to say, you have not only gained one vote, you have accomplished what the goal of any campaign should be. You gave a voice to the people. You became an advocate for those who, throughout their lives, have been longing to be heard. You alone gave them something to believe in. And that my friends... That is what wins elections.

So in closing, while this campaign season is far from over, I have learned a lot. The experiences I have had and the people I have met have been priceless. While not all positive, campaigning is like life. You take the good with the bad and in the end, you hopefully wind up a little smarter. A little wiser. And with a new found respect for those who dedicate their lives to using the political platform and process to give the people, the masses, something to look forward to. Something to put their hopes and dreams into. This is bigger than us, my friends. This is our future in the making.

Hard Workin' Man

What do you think of when someone mentions the name, Andre Bauer? The name alone conjures up many a notion but I think it's time the record is set straight. Last night, as Andre was weaving together the story of his life to this point during an interview, I walked away with a much better sense of this elusive figure. To me, Andre has always been a guarded mystery but for the first time last night I saw him open up to us, the public. The words he spoke were a beautiful tribute to Andre, the man behind the blue blazer. 

I am sure many of you reading this now have many a poor story that would bring a tear to the eye of anyone who knew of your plight growing up. I sure do have my share. I remember when I saw 9 my mother and I lived in Texas. My parents had just divorced and I was thrust into a whole new world. The childhood I once knew had been forever lost. That year all I looked forward to was Christmas. My mother couldn't afford to buy me much so I waited for my father to send me, and I remember this as if it were yesterday, a Gameboy and games and several new micro-machine cars. We didn't have a car at the time, our feet being our main mode of transportation, so of course my presents arrived at the post office on Christmas Eve late in the day. The postmaster knew we were waiting for that particular package so she called us. Then, armed with not much more than a coat and gloves and pure determination, my mother and I walked for several miles in the snow and sleet to the post office and back because growing up, it's always just been my mother and I. No big family, just us. And it turned out to be a great Christmas. Staying up late playing with my games, my mother making me hot chocolate and the two of us looking out the window, watching the snow. Looking back I have to admit those were some of my happiest memories. It's because of those experiences growing up that I have a better understanding of mankind and what makes us tick. And for being someone who wants to break into the world of politics one day, I am one with the people. The masses. I have not and will not lose touch with the common man. But, guess what? I stand here not alone. Last night I found out that one man stands side by side with us. Andre Bauer. 

I can read people fairly well. If you're lying to me, I'll know it. But last night, as Andre painted a picture of his journey from young boy going through the divorce of his parents to young man working his way through college to the strong, independent man he is today, he was genuine. Honest. He spoke so eloquently of his boyhood memories and working hard from an early age to live the life he not only knew he could have but that he knew he deserved. I have to be honest. I never knew Andre had such an inspirational story. He recanted us with one tale of a time when he would sell candy at school instead of using his free lunch card because even at a young age Andre knew that to make it in this life you don't wait for someone else to pick you up, you pick yourself up. What a strong willed, determined young man he must have been. That perseverance and will has stayed with him to manhood.

Andre may be many things and during the past few months as I have been helping him with his Congressional campaign, I've seen a glimpse into the man behind the curtain so to speak. I am here to tell you that, by all accounts, he is a true politician. And he's good at it. The reason being is that he really is one of the good guys. (Yes, they really do exist) Whatever you know, or think you may know about him, he really does want to make a difference. At his core, he knows this and that is why, everyday, he gets up with one purpose. To leave the world a little better and a little brighter than he found it. To give those who look up to him hope. Hope that one day they too may find the success and happiness he has. See, my friends, after seeing his interview last night and having gotten to know him a little, I am here to tell you that Andre Bauer represents what America is all about. Taking what this life gives you and, through hard work, determination, and by the sweat of your brow, making a good life for yourself and for those around you. Life is hard. We need guys like Andre to give us that hope. Thanks Andre. Keep up the good fight. We are here, right beside you, every step of the way.

Book Review: Crashing the Club

If someone were to tell you that you had lost before you even began playing a particular game, would you still play? Or would you turn your back, dumb with terror and defeat, and walk away opting to let those more experienced players win? In the world of politics, there are those of us who begin playing the game at a disadvantage. I know that should I choose to forge ahead I will probably lose. I will probably succumb to my  own insecurities and fade away into the background. But those of you out there reading this who may be in the same boat I am, we have a new mecca of hope. A shining ray of light to look to for guidance and wisdom. My friends, we have a book that reads like a love song for us political misfits and outcasts. 

"Crashing the Club" by Mande Wilkes

We all know the world of politics is full of corrupt politicians, crooked staffers, and media vultures. It's what makes the machine.. work. It's never going to change. Never. So what do you do? At first, I was unsure of the answer. But after reading this, as the back cover states, part motivational manual, I realized that it's not the people or the circumstances or even the environment that will ever change. It's my perception of this crazy mixed up world that needs to change. To score an almost impossible win, I have learned from this book that instead of working against the "establishment", I have to work with it. And do so by being myself. Just like in swimming, if you swim against the current, you'll tire quickly and give up. But if you swim with it and make it work for you, then it's smooth sailing. 

I've also learned that one need not compromise in order to survive the shark infested waters of South Carolina politics. Instead, from what I learned reading this book, you can use that which makes you different, unique and make it work in your favor. As I finished the book and realized this fact, I breathed a deep sigh of relief. I like me. Others may, others may not. But I like me. I don't want to change in order to, as one of my new year's goals are, become a paid campaign staffer. I want to be me. Stubborn, indecisive, picky, temperamental, emotional, slightly neurotic, and at times even a bit mean. But I'm also worth it. And that's what this book gives you. Self worth, self awareness, and confidence. 

So on behalf of those out here on the island of misfit politicos, thank you Mande. Thank you for this poetic journey which you take us on. In my opinion, it's equal parts reality, truth, and above all... hope.

Have a little faith

Normally I talk of politics but today I'd like to talk about something a little different. This morning I went to church for the first time in a very, very long time. As I was sitting there, watching all the people and listening to the music and praise, I felt as if I had been let it on a little secret. Read on to find out what...

Life is hard. I am sure many of you reading this now would agree. We as mortal beings go through many ups and downs and through it all, some of us have strong support systems while others of us are left to brave the cold, harsh world alone. The world can be cruel. People can be worse. To think one can go it alone is to have the mindset of a fool. We all need help. I for one have always felt it best to rely on no one but myself for moral support, emotional comfort, and love. To not lean on your fellow man means never having to be disappointed or let down or hurt. Opening up to those around you also opens you up to those weaknesses which we try all too often to hide. Hurt, pain, sadness, and despair. Loneliness is a suit of armor I have worn and worn proudly my whole life. To be alone for me has meant safety. Security. Recently, though, I found out that even the toughest of soldiers with the best shields are useless if trying to fight the world alone. Which brings me to this morning. 

I decided that, even if just for an hour, it would be interesting to see what the world looks like through the eyes of faith. And prayer. The interior of the church itself was breathtaking. The light coming through the windows looked as if God had personally lit the room so we may focus on him and him alone. Everyone in the room seemed to be at ease. At peace. Just something about being in a place of worship strips people of their worries, their problems and their pain. They, if even for a brief moment in time, feel... safe. Safe from the outside world. In here, we are protected. But instead of protective gear, we had the Bible and a Pastor and each other. And above all, God. As I looked around the room I saw, in the eyes of the congregation, hope. It's amazing how one can go from hopelessness to optimism in a matter of moments simply by letting go and allowing yourself to be part of something so much bigger than yourself. It seemed as though it was over before it began. As I left I turned around to take one last look at the interior and this time I saw more than just the sunlight. I saw God. Here's the little secret I wanted let you all in on. When I left through those doors and got in my car, God was still with me. And there you go. No matter how much or how often you think you are alone or lonely, you aren't. God is with all of us. In the car, at work, when we are having the best times in our lives and when we feel like giving up. 

To sum things up, I will never be one who opens up easily. I am an eternal loner. But after today I realize that even if I am sitting in my room alone or driving around aimlessly trying to get lost for no reason, I am not alone. I have a purpose. What that purpose is has yet to be revealed to me. But I did feel today that there is someone out there, watching over me, watching out for me, and above all, gave me the tools and skills necessary to make it in this life. And make it I will. This is my time. This is our time. Let's not waste it. The time is now...

Snapshot, Don't Take my Picture

It's been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. I tend to disagree. To me, a picture represents a wasted memory. A time spent trying to capture a moment on film rather than enjoying the moment itself.

Growing up an only child and raised by a single parent, my mother and I had the luxury of simply picking up and moving whenever the mood struck. For this we were labeled "Gypsies". From hopping on a train, plane, or automobile, we tended to never stay in one place for too long. Because of this I grew up realizing that I always had to take a minimalistic approach to life. Which meant not hanging on to an exorbitant amount of "stuff". Everything I owned growing up could easily fit in one suitcase and one box.We traveled light and traveled often. I sometimes asked my mother why we didn't have all the "normal things" other families had such as family heirlooms, photo albums and keepsakes. Her answer was always the same. She simply stated that we pass through life so briefly that we need to create memories as we travel down the road of existence and not be bogged down by trying to capture the present or hang on to the past. As a child, instead of sitting down with my mother and flipping through old family photos, she would regale me with fascinating tales of her childhood and of my grandmother and the rest of the family. We would laugh, cry and at the end of the night, I always came away with a sense that I was there. With my mom when she was 5 y/o and tried to kiss a boy for the first time and instead sat on a bee in front of the boy and ran around the schoolyard holding her bottom. Or the times my grandmother would rock me to sleep when I was baby. By hearing these stories I didn't need a photo to look at, instead I could close my eyes and, as I listened to mother, I could see it all happening as if it were happening at that very moment.

If you were to look at the bottom of my closet today or under my bed, you won't find any pictures. Nor will you find any photo albums. But if you could look into my heart or see into my soul, there you will find a treasure chest full of memories of days gone by, people who have been loved and lost, and you'll see me. The 5 y/o little boy going to the Zoo for the first time in San Diego and the young man that I am today. So next time you are inclined to ask me to take a picture, stop for a moment. Instead, walk with me, talk with me, and above all, let's create a memory together that will never fade and that will stand the test of time.

Time for Change... Andre Bauer 2012

I have been reading reports recently which state that former South Carolina Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer is moving one step closer to announcing his bid for the new 7th Congressional District Seat. This troubles me. It troubles me deeply. Read on to find out why...

It's been stated that soon, this race will become a cosmic tidal wave with the 7th District being swept up in a candidate frenzy. From all far reaching corners of the new district, there have been many names of candidates swirling about for this new seat. But little do they know, there is a wind blowing from Grand Dunes in Myrtle Beach. A wind so strong their dreams of victory will be swept away and become nothing more than fading memories. And the person single-handedly controlling this powerful force is none other than my candidate of choice, Andre Bauer.

To categorize Andre Bauer as a hard worker is the understatement of the century. The term "hard worker" set sail long ago and in it's place remains the only term which can be used to describe Mr. Bauer... Tenacious. Being born of tenacity means that one is not easily dispelled or discouraged. That is Andre Bauer to a tee. Naysayers beware. You may bring to this fight a fortress full of verbal ammunition and mud filled canons but you will not pass through the walls of Andre. He has a backbone made of steel. Say what you will about this man and it will not phase him nor veer him off course. One word comes to mind when I think about Andre's potential upcoming campaign... Redemption.

Which brings me back to my original point. Having Andre Bauer enter the race concerns me for the simple fact that the other potential candidates have no idea what they are getting themselves into. This man, this political beast, is a true army of one marching onward towards victory. He cares so deeply for South Carolina and for the people living within the new 7th District, it can easily be said that coursing through his veins is true blue Palmetto pride. Does Andre Bauer need this new seat? No. He's an independent self made business man whose only motivation for throwing his hat into the political ring one more time is the simple fact that he loves, he yearns for the opportunity to make a difference. A difference in my life, your life, and in the lives of everyone who he respectfully serves with dignity, honor, and above all integrity.

If you are reading this and you are a potential candidate for the 7th district or you know someone who may be toying around with the idea of running, keep this in mind; At the end of the day when your bones are weary and your head heavy and you collapse from exhaustion, Andre Bauer will still be up working late into the wee hours of twilight because when he sets his mind to do something, he does it. And he does it big. From fundraising to drumming up endorsements to rallying the masses, he does it all with a fire in his belly. Fasten your seat belts my friends because we are all about to get swept up in the winds of change that shall soon be known as the Andre Bauer for Congress campaign...