McKenya Dilworth Smith
I am a big enthusiast of TED Talks, which inspired me to co-found TEDxGary. However, with the daily demands of life, I often find it challenging to listen to an engaging TED Talk. Recently, over the break, I unexpectedly came across Simon Sinek's TED Talk on the importance of "Why" in leadership. This topic caught my attention, as I have strong opinions about leadership that differ significantly from the norm.
If you took a moment to reflect on why you work, why you go to the gym, or why you do anything at all, what would your answers be? I engaged in this self-reflection, which ultimately led me to the courage to run for political office.
My "why," my driving force, is rooted in a desire to help people. Now, before you assume I'm claiming sainthood, let me clarify that I struggle with common flaws, including overeating and overspending. However, as I evaluated my recent endeavors, I realized that my life's work and philosophy are fundamentally about helping others become the best versions of themselves. In my view, this is how I find affirmation.
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After losing my parents, my closest friends and my biggest supporters, I found myself in a dark place. Neither of my parents lived to see me enter my 40s, and this was particularly difficult during a decade filled with painful experiences, such as divorce and job loss. I faced the silence of insincere friends and the absence of unsupportive family members.
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In that isolation, I felt alone in my faith. However, I later discovered that many people were praying for me and encouraging me without my knowledge. I recognized the importance of doing the necessary "me" work to learn how to thrive quietly. Throughout this journey, I vowed to emulate the resilience I observed in my parents, who repeatedly faced Goliaths and learned from their experiences.
Helping others was always central to my family's values. It was an intangible inheritance that my parents passed on to me. Unknowingly, I embraced this responsibility and calling in my work at the theater, in schools, in classrooms, during overseas travel, and, hopefully, in my role as a publicly elected servant.
Completion & Service
As we consider our motivations for our actions, it's essential to address our responsibilities. We can learn valuable lessons when we accept roles, especially in politics. Once elected through democratic processes -- whether by public vote or a caucus -- new officials have a duty to serve. Part of serving is fulfilling the term of office, though exceptions exist. Among the many reasons that might lead an elected official to leave their position, personal ambition is typically not a primary motivation.
Engaging in political "hopscotch" erodes public trust and raises questions about the true intentions behind seeking office. In 2025, let us all reflect on the "why" that drives our actions, both privately and publicly. I am clear about my motivation for pursuing public office: to have a larger platform to assist people in becoming healthier, more fulfilled versions of themselves. If I am elected to office, I will commit to serving my full term and will not leave for what may seem like a more appealing opportunity. Completing my term is an important aspect of my dedication to serving the people.
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