Lewiston has no lack of leaders, but I have heard all and every kind of excuse for running for City Council or School Committee or mayor.

Disgusted by politics? Who isn’t? If we all turn away, we are willingly giving away our power to others.

Too busy? Who isn’t? They say that if you want something done, ask a busy person, they will get it done.

Have no idea what to do? I did not even know there was a mayoral election the year I ran and had no idea how to run.

Think it is too late? No way. I got all my signatures between Aug. 30 and Sept. 3 the first year I ran.

If ever there was a time for measured thoughtful leaders to step up to the plate it is now. There is never a “good time.”

The time to contribute is now. I know that Lewiston has many, many leaders. I also know that often they would rather remain behind the scenes. Our community cannot afford to do that anymore.

Before I moved away people kept asking me to run again. I am at a different place figuratively and physically but, for Lewiston, it is time for the future. New faces, new ideas, new energy.

Being of service to community and country is the right thing to do, especially right now.

I will always love and believe in the people of Lewiston. The leadership is there.

Others underestimate Lewiston all the time. I don’t.

Kaileigh Tara, San Diego, Calif.