The wonder of legislative service: Thoughts and advice from a retiring lawmaker

As I conclude eight years of legislative service, my memories of that first day walking into the legislative chamber as a Nebraska state senator remain as clear as ever.

It was a bit intimidating. I was overwhelmed walking on the floor of the Legislature, realizing that I was one of 49 people in the state with the power to make laws that impact every Nebraskan.

Over time, and with experience, I became more comfortable with the processes of the Legislature, and my confidence grew.

However, I never lost my sense of awe to be a part of the institution.

I had a friend share with me a letter that Willa Cather wrote to her life partner, Edith Lewis. In it, Cather talked about watching the stars at night: “Edith,” she wrote, “we [humans] are the only wonderful things — because we can wonder.”

It has always been a wonder to me to get to work in the Legislature, with all of my colleagues, and to have shared incredible successes and agonizing losses. What an absolute wonder to have had this opportunity.

As my tenure came to an end this year, and I had an opportunity to deliver a parting speech to my colleagues, I talked about what I learned, and what had served me well during my eight years of service. Here are excerpts of that speech.