By Merlin D’souza – City of Saguaro
Day 3 of Arizona Girls State was impactful.
One lesson that stuck out to me today was about the poppy that represents the American Legion Auxiliary. The symbolism of each part of the poppy flower, which grew on the graves of soldiers who died during WWI, signifies the sacrifice made for our freedom. It reminded me of this quote by John Maxwell Edmonds “When you go home, tell them of us and say, ‘For your tomorrows these [people] gave their today’”. Arizona Girls State pays these veterans the tribute they deserve and reminds me of the sacrifice and the dedication of those before me. I am so proud to be part of this experience.
Today we met with our neighboring city, Sycamore, which formed our county of Kaibab. Together my city of Saguaro and the city of Sycamore picked our representatives. I am so happy to say that I am a District Supervisor! I was so proud of my fellow citizens as they attained positions of leadership, so many of my peers volunteered for the positions given, which speaks to our potential.
We don’t shy away from the task ahead of us, rather we know that our voice and ideas can change the future of our mythical cities. Even if they are mythical, the knowledge we are retaining about these positions makes me hopeful that we will go back into our communities and assume those positions, because “WOW” the difference we will make!
We then broke off into our separate cities and nominated our governor and secretary of state, who I hope will make it to the end! I can’t do enough justice to highlight the wonderful personality of the staff, especially our advisor for the City of Saguaro, Mrs. Tincher. I can’t wait for Day 4. Until tomorrow…