Article October 18, 2004 Issue

THE GRACE TO RUN

Patti Kadick with contributions from Grace Reisdorf

HER TONE WAS EMPHATIC: "IT'S IN HIS HANDS." Grace Reisdorf, a Christian Scientist, is running for the New Hampshire Senate. And she told staff editor Patti Kadick that it is not her campaign, but God's. Not that she feels that divine Love has taken on her campaign and no one else's. But she does feel that He governs and takes care of her and everyone involved.

Things political caught her attention at a young age—she eagerly voted at 18—and continues her avid support of community needs. Reisdorf has made time to co-found the organization "Friends of Education" in her town of Derry and served as an officer on both the local school board and the New Hampshire School Boards Association. All this while being a volunteer ski instructor six days a week for 11 years.

She may now appreciate being named Grace. But growing up, she says, "I always thought, 'Oh, how can they do that to me? I'm the clumsiest.' For years I didn't understand the word grace, but I now think that grace has to do with bringing a feeling of trust and love to every situation. So, beyond my name, I hope I can bring grace to any office."