Election '08: Ann Peoples's Proust Questionnaire

Ann Peoples is a Democrat seeking re-election to District #125 in the Maine House of Representatives.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?
I don't think "perfect" happiness is possible in a less-than-perfect world. Being useful, fulfilled and fortunate in your friends and family is pretty darn good however.
What is your current state of mind?
Hopeful.
Which living person do you most admire?
The person who gets up every morning and does what needs to be done with good humor and compassion and without complaint.
What is your greatest fear?
Helplessness.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Um, pedicures if you must know!
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Thoughtless cruelty.
What is your most marked characteristic?
Curiosity.
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Impatience.
Which living person do you most despise?
The person who does something to you "for your own good."
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Patience (I think there's a pattern in here somewhere).
What do you dislike most about your appearance?
My very round face.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
At almost 62, that would have to be my age!
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Compassion.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Compassion.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
"Ya know?"
Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to put people at ease.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My husband.
When and where were you happiest?
I make it a practice to be happiest in the here and now because that's where I am.
Where would you like to live?
Right here.
What is your most treasured possession?
My family.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Loneliness.
What is your favorite occupation?
Learning about everything and anything.
Who is your favorite hero of fiction?
Horatio Hornblower (no, really!)
Who are your heroes in real life?
The guys who run into burning buildings.
What do you most value in your friends?
Their ability to put up with me!
What is it that you most dislike?
Meanness.
What is your motto?
The Lord will provide, but if you want potatoes, pick up the hoe.

- John C.L. Morgan