Over the years I have learned the English language can be pretty convoluted. Two words can have the same definition but carry very different connotations.

Consider the words “public servant” and “politician.”

Both mean practically the same thing; however, we look favorably on one and cast a jaundice eye toward the other.

At election time, most of us look for the public servants and not politicians. We look for those who feel the call, bravely step forward and open up their personal lives to public scrutiny. No, public service is not easy; nonetheless, there are those who respond to the call to serve.

We trust our public servants with our resources and they are expected to perform their duties with integrity and excellence. We expect service before self. We expect them to put away personal agendas and interests to serve the greater whole. We expect them to listen to all of us (not just the groups or cliques that make the most noise). The bottom line is we expect our public servants to make a difference in our neighborhoods, communities, cities and states.

I believe we have such a person in Cynthia Galloway. She is a public servant and not a politician. I have enjoyed the privilege of serving alongside of Cynthia Galloway during my tenure as a local school board director. She is “passionate about serving others.”

She has made the public’s welfare her life’s work. She has done this without spotlight or fanfare. Her passion towards service makes her a strong advocate in our community. It makes her the best candidate in City Council District 1.

Vicki Collins

Bremerton