After 23 years of having kids in the house, Cathi Herrod is an empty nester.
But she's anything but bored.
As president of The Center for Arizona Policy (CAP), she is helping to lead the battle to protect marriage in the Grand Canyon State. CAP is associated with Focus on the Family.
In November, Arizona will vote on a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as the union between one man and one woman. Two years ago, voters narrowly defeated a similar initiative.
Herrod will be honored at Values Voter Summit 2008 with Focus on the Family Action's Family Champion Award.
She spoke with CitizenLink this week.
1. When the Arizona marriage amendment was defeated, what were your thoughts? What enabled you to start the fight over?
Many years ago, I learned to focus on one key verse found in Proverbs 21:31: “The horse is prepared for the day of battle but victory belongs to the Lord.” We are to seek God’s guidance and be prepared for the day of battle but leave the results in God’s hands.
While I was disappointed with the defeat, I also knew the results were in God’s hands. Standing for what’s right in the public policy arena does not depend on the victories or the defeats. It’s a life’s calling and mission. After accepting and analyzing the defeat, my next step was to seek the Lord for His will. As Proverbs also tells us, there’s wisdom in the abundance of counselors. I sought counsel as to whether we should pursue another marriage amendment in Arizona.
2. What is a typical day like for you?
The honest answer? I don’t know! My husband and I recently became empty nesters after 23 years of raising children. I don’t know what a typical day will be without my day revolving around my children’s schedules. I try to make sure I start every day with prayer then go from there.
Everyone tells me I’m high-energy, and that’s true. Most days are filled with multi-tasking, including meetings and keeping up on e-mails and current news. And, as my pastor’s wife told me when I got married, I know every day that the typical day will end with me and my husband together.
3. Some people say the definition of marriage doesn't really matter. Why is it worth protecting?
Marriage is God’s design for man and woman. It’s the foundation for all of life. It’s the gift we give our children. Virtually every social science study out there proves our point: Marriage between a man and a woman is best for children and best for society. We have a small window of time in which to secure the definition of marriage for our children and grandchildren. That’s why we’re working to pass marriage amendments across the country.
4. What do you think of Sen. John's McCain's choice for vice president?
I am thrilled with Sarah Palin’s nomination. She gives voice to the millions of women like me who are pro-life, pro-marriage, pro-family. She’s living out her values and her walk daily, like many of us. We all need to remember to pray for her.
5. How can we pray for you?
Thanks for asking. Pray for me to have godly wisdom and discernment as I lead the pro-family efforts in our state. Pray for daily strength.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Cathi Herrod goes on camera with Stuart Shepard.
