Well, Friday turned out to be just as good as I hoped. Me and the new canvasser collected a total of $410, and about 5 new members. And tonight was even better. 12 members and over $1000 in donations from my team. We're done with North Beach and have moved on to the Sunset. The Inner Sunset is going to be a gold mine of potential ACLU members, I think. Lots of young professionals, new families, doctors, nurses and recent grads that are all very ripe and ready to join on up. If tonight is any example, we're going to do very well there.
However, walking in to work this afternoon, I really wasn't sure how much longer I'd be doing this. I received a call from the Director on Saturday afternoon (while at AT&T Park, watching the Giants lose, again.) and he informed me that the schedule was changing. Sunday/Monday would be the days off, and instead of just 3 nights of door canvassing (the 2pm-10pm shift), there would instead be 4 nights. And really, that just does not work for my personal life.
Lu and I talked it over all weekend, and decided that if that new schedule was firm and unchangeable, that I would definitely have to move on. I love doing this, but I refuse to let my work consume my life. I would never see my awesome wife, I would never have time for delicious dinners with friends, I would be unable to see music on a week night, and I really would not have the time to unwind, read and relax that I need to be a happy, healthy person. So first thing today, the Director and I talked, and the outcome was quite good.
He understands my need for a balance of work and life. He realizes that I'm not just some kid doing this for the summer or between jobs. I've made it clear through my words and actions that I want to try and make grassroots political organizing my career, and I've done everything I can to be an asset to the office. So instead of just letting me go, he agreed that perhaps a more palatable schedule can be arranged if I become the Assistant Director. No Saturday canvassing. Two nights off during the week.
And I am absolutely thrilled to take on this challenge. It will mean a few extra hours here and there, as well as a whole heap of added responsibilities, but I'm ready for it. I'm more than ready, really. I'm totally fucking psyched, and I can't wait to take this next step helping the ACLU grow and to continue fighting for our civil liberties.
We're heading back into the foggy Sunset tomorrow, and I'm certain we're going to kick ass, again.