Eyes Quote by Valerie Jarrett
“When you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to, and I think that that engagement gives you political judgment.”
About This Quote
Local government work immerses you in people's lives, teaching listening and broadening perspective, which sharpens political judgment.
In simple terms: Grassroots service builds empathy and better judgment.
Key Takeaway
Engage directly to improve decision‑making.
Themes
public service
empathy
leadership
political judgment
listening
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- community meetings
- policy development
- constituent outreach
- leadership training
Key Concepts
civic engagement
political science
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you maintain listening in larger roles?
- What practices sustain empathy?
A Different Perspective
Time constraints may limit depth of engagement.
