So I know, I know, I have not written much. With all that’s been happening, it's been hard to keep up. But most of all, it's been hard to put on paper thoughts, emotions and future plans.
Well, this winter we were plagued by the death of my beloved father. I was crushed, and really there is no way to describe that kind of pain. The first few days are a fog. I remember only being able to master the strength to make decisions for his funeral. He was buried in his beloved Albania, for which he dedicated his entire life to public service as did most of the Sharra family. An eagle was placed on his casket showing his patriotism, integrity and love of country.
I remember mastering enough strength to make a speech, but what do you say about the man that was larger than life. He fought for democracy. He marched in the 1990s with his fellow heroes of that era. He was the mayor of Vlora from 1992-1996, and the Prefect of Shkodra, Puka and Malesia e madhe during the worst time, 1998-2000.
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| Dad, Mom and I in Rothenburg, Germany |
I remember mastering enough strength to make a speech, but what do you say about the man that was larger than life. He fought for democracy. He marched in the 1990s with his fellow heroes of that era. He was the mayor of Vlora from 1992-1996, and the Prefect of Shkodra, Puka and Malesia e madhe during the worst time, 1998-2000.
Nothing was enough. I mastered the strength because I could hear his soft and firm voice telling me “ Besa, you are my daughter, and I know you can do this.” Yes, indeed I am, and I did.
I know he would not want me to sit around crying and feeling sorry for myself. So I gather every ounce of strength there is in me and tell myself not to cry everyday.
Today, I have a new job. I am a United States Citizen, Yay!I am active with Zonta working on projects to help advance the status of women. I sit on the board of the Columbus Bilingual Academy. And I surround myself with my husband and family ( from which I derive all my strength), my lovely dogs, my friends who are always around to make me smile, and my volunteering around the community.
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| A gift from my parents in law It Says" Besa Sharrah, New American Citizen, April 8th,2014, "Live the American Dream" |
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| With the Judge that performed our Naturalization Ceremony, a very emotional time |
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| With my parents in law, who support us in every adventure, misfortune, sad and happy time of our lives. |
Soon, Rob and I will have been married for four years. Four real, happy, hard, emotional, intense years. I am very grateful for this person in my life who makes me better everyday, who tests my patience just as much, who challenges me to be bigger, better and make sure I lead a happy life!
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| On Our Wedding Day |
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On our Wedding Day
Well, as you also might know, Rob is running for office. Yup, he is!! Ohio House District 18, which includes Bexley, Franklinton, German Village, Grandview Heights, Weinland Park, The Hilltop, Merion Village, Olde Towne East, Schumacher Place, The University Community, Harrison West, Italian Village and Victorian Village.
Decent territory!
I will tell you how this all came about. We had been involved with the Franklin County GOP helping in campaigns for a while. I remember the day that he called me. I was in the hospital with Dad) and he said reluctantly that there was one nomination left, and he had been asked by the party to run. The selection committee was meeting that evening. I quickly encouraged him to run.
You might wonder why I would want to be involved with such an enormous project at probably the hardest times in my life? Well, I agree with you, but the idea to not do it seemed even worse than the time and energy that would have to be dedicated to doing it. AND we were right!
We connected because of our love for public service.We have had such a good time getting to know the community:
· helping clean up through a project with the Franklinton Board of Trade called "Kickbutt Columbus"
participating in " Tag of War Games with the Children" in the community of Bexley during July 4th celebrations (yup the kids whooped my hubby!!!)
Serving food at the Hilltop Bean dinner
 Memorial Day Parade, Candy anyone?!
Back from the annual Bexley John Barr 5K
Bexley John Barr 5K, Rob and Snacks did better than Annabelle and I
Meeting the community
It has been very eye-opening to go around the community and discuss the issues that are important to resolve as we build Ohio's economy with Governor Kasich's productive and highly effective projects like JobsOhio.
Thanks, to the hard work of Gov. Kasich, one the most heart-wrenching social problems we face today, human trafficking, is being tackled.
Rob and I both care so deeply and are currently working with some projects(secret for the time being) and their respective patrons to help, to educate the public, to promote the appropriate method for reporting instances, to direct victims to available resources, and to strengthen human trafficking laws.
 Lincoln-Reagan Dinner, 2014
While Rob and I are hardly the people that follow anyone blindly, democrat or republican, we feel compelled to help advance some of these projects that we—having had the experience in the private sector—believe to be key in rebuilding Ohio's economy.
My favorite was also when we visited the Long Street Bridge Unveiling. It was incredible to see significant local artists, landmarks, community leaders and pioneers who have been an integral part of the Columbus story honored—bridging the past with the present.
As we get closer to this Election Day, I would like to encourage you to vote. I encourage you to make your voice heard on this day. 
And lastly, I want to thank you. Rob and I cannot thank you enough for supporting and believing in our cause. This was more than just a campaign for, this was an eye-opening experience towards the things that are being done to make Ohio better, and the work that is still ahead of us. Thank you for the work you do—going across neighborhoods to knock on doors and put up yard signs, making phone calls, supporting us, donating funds, and convincing friends and family to join our team.
We still believe that better days are ahead! It's up to us to rally together to renew America's promise and restore American greatness.
From the bottom of our hearts, Rob and I thank you for your support, prayers, efforts, and vote. We are forever grateful to each and every one of you."
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