Vote

(for Rob Ittner)

I spent the last week bumping into Rob Ittner. This guy was the first person we saw going into town on I-82 near the roundabout. Later I found him standing next to the Hotel Jerome, where my husband and I got married 30 years ago. My dad insisted on depositing his ballot into the drop box and we waved at Mr. Ittner across the street, about a half block away. Every time I saw him, Rob was waving his sign as people honked or flipped him off. Rob was undeterred.

I have no idea if my values align with Rob Ittner’s. I’m not even sure what a county commissioner does, nor can I vote in Pitkin County or Colorado. But I’ve found myself wanting to vote for Rob.

In this Instagram age of effortless perfection, being hungry is embarrassing or worse, shameful. And watching someone work for something they value, in the land of billionaires and private jets, felt like an act of defiance.

We went for a run, on my last day in Aspen, and there was Rob Ittner at the last turn out of town. He waved at a long line of Rivian trucks and Range Rovers. The smile on Rob’s face said it all. Maybe life is about putting yourself out there. Maybe having it all while looking bored isn't as satisfying as we’ve been led to believe.

Rob got me thinking about what I value, what am I willing to stand on a street corner for, and what’s bigger than my ego.

Before I write what I value enough to stand on a street corner for, I’m wondering: what do you value?

Here’s my list (so far):

My three kids.

My husband

Those struggling with addiction

The marginalized

***

Join me this Saturday and Sunday!