Why I will not run for public office.
There are many reasons why I would enjoy a run at the school board, a county commissioner seat or city council. Most days I'm certain I would be a better Governor than Pawlenty, especially concerning decisions affecting the poor, civil rights, the critical separation of church and state and of course, reproductive freedom.
And I've been asked. When I lived in Rice County, the local DFL leadership frequently sought me as a candidate against the notorious John Tuma, anti-choice, pro-gun legislator turned lobbyist .
But I had a real life in those days. I had children to raise, sermons to write, a man who was always in the way. There was no time for political posturing.
Now, my children are grown, my church turned Republican, and my former husband is working on his fourth marriage. My real life disappeared long ago. Even so, I cannot run.
The reasons are simple. After almost sixty years of speaking, writing, working for the poor and advocating for women, I have something my mother warned me to never have.
I have a reputation.
I'm known as an outspoken advocate. Google my name, if you don't believe me. I'm flattered that some of my essays have been identified as the "best" on the internet and the "most progressive" of printed media.
My name is not at all "household," and yet, I've been called a "dangerous American" by people who have never met me.
Last week, an executive head-hunter phoned. He had a client, he said. A Twin Cities corporation, seeking an experienced writer, editor, copywriter and communications professional. He asked if I was interested.
I was. I am. And so I forwarded my latest work. The headhunter, bless his heart, is a young, young man. He looked at my material and gushed with approval. National Public Radio. Column in the Star Tribune - surely, he said, the client would be interested.
Seriously? Interested in a woman who's name makes a conservative corporate officer turn to salt? I don't think so.
But last week, once again, I allowed myself to nurture a vague and rather adorable hope.
I am a silly and foolish woman. The expected happened.
This morning the recruiter called me, baffled. I am, he said, the obvious candidate for the position. The poor recruiter couldn't understand why the hiring manager turned me down, and asked instead for a candidate described as inferior to me - the next on the list.
"It makes no sense," the recruiter said. "He didn't give a reason. He only said he wouldn't meet you."
I comforted him. "I don't mind," I said.
I told the truth. I don't. I no longer go where I'm tolerated. I work now for organizations and individuals who celebrate the values and skills I bring forward.
That's why I'm not running for office. Momma was right - the only thing a girl has is her reputation. Me? In cahoots with the likes of Pawlenty and the other hooigans who promise one thing and deliver nothing? Not on your life.
I have a reputation to maintain.
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