I felt like sharing this anecdote from the campaign trail because I believe it’s important. I debated waiting until after the election because I didn’t want to come across as melodramatic or as a some type of martyr. That is not my intention.

About a month ago I was assaulted while canvassing in Ward 2. I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve personally experienced physical violence. I considered calling the police. I didn’t. I wasn’t hurt.

At first, I didn’t know what to do. I contemplated writing him a letter. I felt anguish over the next few days. I felt powerless. I knew what he did was criminal. I knew it was wrong. I knew I did nothing wrong.

It reminded me of when I was in law enforcement. Many people treat police officers a certain way not realizing that they are also human beings. The antipathy felt toward them has nothing to do with their individuality as a person. It’s about what/who they represent.

I had gone so far as buying this card from Tally’s to mail to him with the letter (I actually bought one for myself also).

One intervention therapists sometimes recommend is writing a letter to those who wrong you. Sometimes you send it; sometimes you don’t. It’s emphasized that the reason for writing it is for oneself rather than needing anything from the other person.

This letter wasn’t going to be typed out. It was going to be handwritten on quality paper, because it was important. So, I got quality stationary to write my letter. I was going to mail it, as not to step foot on their property.

Something unexpected happened after I bought the paper. I came to a sense of peace about the entire ordeal. Was I okay that I was assaulted? No! It was wrong. I didn’t deserve it. His actions were due to his life experiences and the vitriol currently being spewed by politicians and the media. The entire interaction was less than 20 seconds. He didn’t attack me, he attacked what I represented.

Somehow, I had to understand what happened to me. I refused to look at him as an enemy. He’s my neighbor in the ward. I’ll never forget him. I don’t even believe he’s registered to vote. And I refuse to hate him.

Please be nice to all the people running for office, particularly those running for local office. It takes courage. Let’s see the humanity in our neighbors, even those who seem to shock our consciences.

*This was originally posted on my Facebook pages.