The Kindness of Strangers

What compels a person to contribute financially to the campaign of a virtually unknown candidate for public office? If we eliminate friends and relatives, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone else with prior ties to the candidate, I think that it is safe to say that all that remains as explanation is the kindness of strangers.

There is a strong sense of obligation that comes with accepting such a gift, for a gift it truly is. The gift is trust and good faith, not just money, and it obligates the recipient to be a better person. Being a better person seems at odds with running for public office, so the gift is really a reminder that the responsibilities of public office demand continuous improvement, both personally and professionally. The standards of such a gift are very high. Thank goodness for the kindness of strangers.