the accidental activist

I like animals as much as the next person, but I've never fancied myself a save-the-whales kinda girl.  My complacency probably had to do something with either not feeling I could make a difference, or the fact that no whales actually wash up beached in my backyard.  But when something hits close to home, it makes all the difference.

Those of you on Facebook have probably noticed and wondered about the justification behind my 'No Oregon DMV' profile picture.  Well, I didn't get my license revoked, fail a driving test, or have to wait three hours over my lunch break for a renewal sticker.  Nope, rather the state has decided they found the perfect new location for their city-wide field office--in our neighborhood.  I won't bore you with all the reasons this is a bad idea (but if you're interested you can find them online at change.org by searching 'bend dmv').  Suffice to say the reasons were near and dear enough to my heart to make me want to take a stand.

And take a stand I did:  I wrote a petition.  I circulated it.  I emailed state senators for support.  I attended city council meetings.  I created a Facebook group.  I gave radio and TV interviews.  I spent countless time and dollars making copies and burning through printer cartridges.  I posted flyers and signs only to have them torn down hours later by our opponents.  I met more neighbors in the past three weeks than I have in living 6 years in our neighborhood.  I had the privelege of working side-by-side with some incredibly talented, dedicated individuals who were just as devoted to the cause.  I spent hours composing a letter to the Governor and compiling an appeal packet, complete with maps, photos, and 765 signatures.  And this morning, I mailed it.

It was a little like giving birth, that feeling of being simultaneously relieved and overjoyed, yet knowing the most difficult part is still to come.  The burnout is starting to set in, and I hope I can make it to the finish line.  We will win or we will lose, that much is certain.  But damn if I don't go down in flames trying.