I recently learned a little-known secret about gubernatorial candidate Mike Michaud: He likes to garden. I was surprised until I started thinking about the qualities of a good gardener.

A gardener should be patient and not expect miracles overnight; not be afraid to get his hands dirty when doing the heavy lifting to improve the landscape; be nurturing and caring to cultivate exceptional outcomes; and work hard to make everything grow and flourish.

I realized I had also just described the qualities of a good governor.

Michaud would demonstrate the patience to work with everyone regardless of party; a work ethic in which hard work is all part of the job; a nurturing, caring demeanor free of hostility; and a vision for real growth in Maine.

After four years of negativity and destruction, Maine deserves a constant, caring gardener. Maine deserves Mike Michaud.

Diane Denk,

Kennebunk