My dad, Chris Petrus, was recently elected to the Cayuga County Legislature. Being and running for legislature comes with a lot of stress not just for my dad but also for my mom and I. I’m very thankful I get to be a part of the political process at such a young age. I have learned so much from politics, things that I will use and remember for the rest of my life.

I learned there are very important issues that happen all the time and there is a certain way to deal with every problem. Not only did I learn how to deal with problems but how to handle stress and other emotions. Not everyone is going to like you, support you, or agree with your decisions, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do what you are doing or what you are doing is wrong. It means you should keep doing exactly what you are doing because politics is expressing something you believe in and feel strongly about. 

I’m very proud of my dad and everything he does. He has to do things that don’t always make everyone happy but it is what’s best and he always thinks of everyone else which is very important. Being involved in politics isn’t just about you, it is about the people you are representing and my dad takes that seriously.

Many people may not realize that politics can help you learn many things and be very helpful. If I wasn’t involved in politics throughout my family I don’t think I would have the knowledge I have today. If you have some extra time on your hands, talk to a local politician and ask them some questions, you might learn something new and interesting.