So many people, with so much to offer, so often choose to let their intelligence and expertise go unused.

We speak here of those who have goals and a vision for what our communities can be. Those with the willingness to take a leadership role, the courage to make tough decisions in tough times and the intelligence to realize real change sometimes occurs at a snail’s pace.

Walking among us are those who see how things are and know they could be better. Those who look at our cities and school systems, are able to weigh what’s right and what’s wrong, and above all have the uncanny ability to note the difference.

Also among us, of course, are those who are quick to criticize, make an ill-informed rush to judgement and spout opinions that simply don’t mesh with the real world of governance. We hear them in public gatherings or over the backyard fence; sometimes, we read their views on the pages of this community publication.

All those folks, from the enlightened intellectual to the biggest blowhard, share one thing in common. All have the ability to make a difference, to impact change one way or another.

Yes, it’s that time again – the time when citizens are called upon to step up, toss their hat into the ring and run for political office. The system only works when people are willing to get involved and make decisions for the good of us all.

The formal filing period is less than two weeks away, providing enough time for those who have considered making a run.

The job isn’t easy. It never is, but taking the reins of public office is especially difficult when times are tough. No one enjoys cutting a popular program because the money simply isn’t available and few relish the thought of providing pink slips because revenues aren’t keeping up with expenses.

But those are the calls that sometimes need to be made. And they’re made by ordinary citizens who have chosen to take a significant leap into the world of local politics. No one will get rich serving on a city council or school board and the compliments will likely be outweighed by the criticism. But the job comes with great personal reward.

For those who silently believe they have what it takes to make a difference, this is the time to step forward.