Big and busy week at the Capitol

Last week was a big week at Oklahoma’s Capitol. I spent countless hours meeting with constituents about topics from medical marijuana to vaccine mandates. In addition to special session to address redistricting, I also met with agency staff, Senate staff, other legislators, constituents, organization advocates and even some of Governor Stitt’s Cabinet members about bill requests for the 2022 legislative session.

Although the week was emotionally driven (and emotionally exhausting), I was able to take a few moments to sit behind my desk and think of how absolutely blessed I am to have the opportunity to serve and how thankful I am to be surrounded by such an incredible support system. 

Reflecting on last week, I think about just a few of the people I was able to meet with or speak to that make me thankful for my village. My friend Nicole lost her job last week for standing up for what she believed was right for herself and her family. I’m grateful for people like Nicole who challenge me to never back down, who love me enough to tell me when they think I’m wrong, but also offer to pray for me when they know I need it most. I met with one of my best friends, Ryan, who always reminds me that even when things seem like they are falling apart, I’ve got reasons to laugh and find joy. Donna, our Executive Assistant for SD43, was yelled at several times on Monday from people who were angry at me. She is a reminder to me that I have people surrounding me that will always protect me, support me, love me, and will always have my back. My sweet husband, precious kiddos and the rest of my family are always the calm. They help me stay centered, and Stephen always reminds me that I cannot make everyone happy, and I cannot carry that weight with me every day.

I’m thankful for my colleagues in the Senate who challenge me to think outside the box, listen to people who think differently than me, and to be willing to stand up for what I believe in and fight against what I don’t. We live in a time where some lawmakers are more concerned about writing public policy that appeals to their party (and can easily be overturned if the opposite party takes back control), rather than writing public policy that is good for ALL Oklahomans and will stand the test of time. I’m grateful that the Capitol has many legislators who seek policy that is timeless, rather than work on policy that will just guarantee they win their next election. I think it takes great character to use your political values to guide your actions, rather than to dictate your actions.

Thanksgiving Day is also my birthday this year. On Nov. 25, I take a minute to reflect on what has been good since my last birthday. Every year is always the same. My life is full of people who love me unconditionally. I have more than enough of everything I need and the means to have most of what I want too. I have an incredibly loving and supportive husband, kids who are recognized for their kindness and character, parents who would give anything to help me succeed, friends who disagree with me, but still value our relationship, a secure job, a roof over my head, food on the table, a church home whose sole purpose is to show Christ’s love and grace, and a God who never leaves my side. 

It’s my hope that this week, Thanksgiving week, you will count your many blessings too. We live in the greatest state and in the greatest country in the world. We, my friends, have so much to be thankful for today, and every day that we wake up in Oklahoma.

If you have any questions or concerns on legislative matters, please contact me at the Capitol. Please write to Senator Jessica Garvin, State Capitol, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd. Room 237, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105, email me at Jessica.Garvin@oksenate.gov or call (405) 521-5522.