A silver lining…

Dear friends,

At least 4,067 amazing supporters went out and voted for me for the delegate race. We may have fallen short of winning, but we must be able to graciously accept the decision of our people, and give our delegate-elect Kimberlyn King-Hinds the opportunity and assistance to do well in Washington, D.C. If she does well, the CNMI does well. We must work together and succeed together for a prosperous Commonwealth.

There is sadness in my heart, as you can expect, of not winning, probably more so for my committee and supporters than myself. I felt earlier that I’ve let them down, that I didn’t do enough, or couldn’t be enough. But the kind messages and calls and visits I received made me realize that the friendship and support you gave me was not contingent on me winning. Your compassion and love and kindness are what motivates me to continue to do what I can to help our people, whether in or out of office.

You have given me a good 10 years as a House representative, and I will always cherish the work we’ve done together as partners in our community. That will continue, along with my love and dedication to you and your family. You have welcomed me and my family into your homes and hearts, and have been with me in my highs and lows in life. You’ve taught me what selfless service means, and that compassion and forgiveness are requisites of being a true public servant leader.

If there is a silver lining to losing this election, it is that I do not have to be away from my wife Daisy and children while working in D.C., as we had decided they would stay here and I would see them when I would come back home every month or two. My family is my world and I know that would have been the most difficult part of this job…missing my son’s soccer games, celebrating birthdays and anniversaries, and other events.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned just how short life is, and how meaningful our time here is on earth. Within a span of a couple of years, I’ve lost both my parents, my mother-in-law, my stepfather-in-law, relatives, and friends. Every day is a blessing. Every day is an opportunity to do good and help others. I’ve learned to forgive rather than seek vengeance. I’ve learned to pray in times where I felt hopeless. And I’ve learned to lean on family and friends in the most difficult of times. Those who judge and attack me do not know me, and that is okay. I pray they find peace in their hearts and wish them well.

To our friends and family, our committee, and to all our supporters, I love you all and wish you the best for you and your family. Undangkulu na si Yu’us ma’asi, Ghilisow, Maraming salamat po.

With love,

Ed Propst