“Nothing bad happens in the puppy box.” This quote is from a recent article about a Finnish website that livestreams a litter of newborn puppies. Millions have tuned in, welcoming the opportunity to spend a few minutes, or maybe more, experiencing joy in something so simple. It’s not surprising, considering how we are bombarded by things that conspire to rob us of happiness and hope. Some days I wonder if we’ve come to accept, even embrace, misery a bit too much. Have we lost our sense of optimism?
And so I’ve made a personal commitment to not only find moments of positivity but to share them. One of the places I’ve found it in abundance is with the Jonathan Kreiss-Tomkins campaign for governor. I’ve been a volunteer since February and have often found myself telling friends how much fun I’m having. I swear it’s not my version of a Tom Sawyer ploy to recruit volunteers.
What makes this campaign so fun? Early on, JKT set up a messaging network of small groups (aka pods), each representing a different region, demographic or other common trait. Together, they form a SuperPod, which has grown to several hundred volunteers. Campaign staff share ads, updates, coming events … the usual stuff. What I didn’t expect was the community that has developed in the SuperPod as members share observations and experiences. Some of it’s serious. Some of it’s silly. It’s become my version of watching the puppy cam. It makes me smile. And it demonstrates JKT’s unique ability not only to connect with people but to connect people with one another around what we have in common, a trait that will make him an outstanding governor.
Another source of joy in this campaign has been observing the clarity and optimism of JKT’s vision for Alaska. This is a person who loves and believes in our state and its people. He also believes in himself. In April, shortly after JKT entered this race, he was a relative unknown with a mere 5% support figure. Today, depending upon the poll, he’s close to, or even slightly over, 50%. He and his talented campaign team accomplished this by taking to the air, rivers, trails and roads to share his positive vision and messages and to listen to people across the state.
As a baby boomer who came to Alaska in 1975, I’m reminded of the excitement I felt during those days when both public and private sectors were flourishing with construction and startup of the trans-Alaska pipeline. We were given incredible opportunities to take part in creating the future we wanted for ourselves and for Alaska. I’m hopeful we are about to elect a governor who will give a new generation of Alaskans the same opportunities and who will reignite our sense of optimism. When we do, I just might be able to wean myself off the puppy cam.
Carla Beam is a 50-year Alaskan who, in retirement, spends her time enjoying Alaska and volunteering with nonprofits and causes she cares about, including the JKT campaign for governor.
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