In one of my first diaries, I explored the ways Wisconsin can go "Forward" after the amazing effort of the summer that ended with two successful recalls of Republican state senators.
I honestly don't know how it was misinterpreted, but I received some criticism for supposedly thinking that the hard-working Wisconsinites had not done enough, not worked hard enough, not finished off the effort. That was not my intention at all. I humbly suggest that I was only recognizing that politics is a never-ending struggle, and was excited at the prospect of a serious turn-around for Wisconsin with the upcoming recall of Walker and at least one more Republican state senator.
(I admit to making the newbie mistake of mentioning one Kossack by name (mentioning -- not calling out), without first engaging her privately. Mea culpa; I was wrong.)
The criticism was that I did not sufficiently recognize how hard the recall effort was on the people engaged in it. By looking forward to the success that we all hope comes in the next round, I did not give the workers enough time to recuperate from their labors. It was suggested that if I had been involved on the ground I would have been more sensitive.
I take this all as constructive criticism. I am probably too old to suddenly become more sensitive, but I am never too old to jump in and get involved. With the Walker recall scheduled to begin in November, I am more than ready to help out.
I cannot remember, though, whether petitions may be circulated by out-of-state residents. If so, count me in. I pledge to spend at least one week in Wisconsin in November or December. If I am eligible to circulate petitions, I would prefer to work in a district where I can circulate Walker petitions and petitions for that elusive one more state senator that will reduce Fitzgerald to the minority leader in the state senate. I also would prefer to spend a week in Madison, because I absolutely fell in love with that city when I was there, but I respect the fact that Madison probably has plenty of coverage already.
If I am eligible, point me to the place where I can do the most good, and I'll be there. If I am not eligible, but you can think of some other work that would be effective, I will come and do that. It's my small way of expiating any sins I committed in that other diary. Well, that and improving my country.