We who serve the public in the Vermont House are the luckiest Vermonters in the world. It is an institution whose accomplishments are bounded only by our ability to work together.
It is with immeasurable hope and faith in the future and what it portends, that I tender my resignation from the Vermont House of Representatives Windham 4 district effective at 5 p.m. with the swearing in of Governor-elect Peter Shumlin on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011.
Nearly two generations of service in the House have taught me many lessons, some of which are worth sharing with those now serving and those to follow.
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Obie's lessons learned:
• Do what you think is right despite the consequences.
• Treat each other with dignity and respect.
• Be honest.
• Never give up. Anything is possible.
• Don't engage in battle over little things. Save it for situations that matter.
• Work hard.
• Worry the Governor like the wolf worries sheep.
• Keep a line of communication open. Listen.
• Treat the taxpayers' money as if it were your own.
• The House Clerk is always correct.
• Work together for the public good.
• Be judicious with the power to tax.
And:
• Remember your constituents are in charge. Protect their rights.
May the Vermont style of government, based on mutual respect and trust and an unrelenting interest in the public good, never perish. The outcome is in our hands and those who follow.