This one’s going out to everyone who ran for office and lost. A very sincere thank you for your interest and tireless efforts.

Your seeking office did more than simply cause you countless sleepless nights — it raised the bar for the elections as a whole. Raised questions and issues that otherwise may have gone unaddressed and, most importantly, it gave the voters a choice.

That choice is what defines an election.

There were many qualified candidates in North Kitsap but — as in any race — there is also only one winner.

Just because you weren’t that person doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel, though. You are all important members of the North Kitsap community and should continue to make your presence as a leader known on many levels.

Don’t ever think of yourselves as “failures.” You’re not. The real failures are those who thought about running. Had the time, energy and ability to commit but never threw their hats in the ring.

You showed what you’re made of and we thank you for doing so. We also hope you know that the credit belongs to those in the arena, not the cold, timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.