On Wednesday, author Paul Rogat Loeb released a wholly revised edition of his book, Soul of a Citizen. Loeb, who has spent the better part of 30 years researching and writing about citizen empowerment, uses his most recent work to explore how ordinary citizens can and do get involved in social movements. He examines how individuals proceed into social involvement, as well as addressing the challenges one must overcome to be a committed activist. Two weeks ago, The Huffington Post profiled a section of Loeb’s book that examined how Clean Elections advocate Alison Smith got into social activism. Her story exemplifies how one can become galvanized by an issue and become a lifelong advocate. Smith, who was initially interested in environmental issues, joined the League of Women Voters after a developer ignored wetland regulations in her own backyard. After becoming active with the League affiliate in Portland, Maine, she eagerly agreed to help collect signatures for a ballot measure that would provide a Clean Elections option for Maine legislative and gubernatorial campaigns. "We've become so used to being disgusted with elections and politicians," she said. "We assume that almost anyone who gets in will be corrupt. But the decisions they make in our name matter hugely, often leaving us with even less power. I didn't know whether the initiative would pass, but I didn't want cynicism to rule my life. I'd like to see politics bring out the best in us, not the worst. I get tired when people complain all the time but never do anything to change things." Smith became more deeply involved, speaking out and meeting with newspaper editorial boards. Smith’s hard work did not go to waste; the initiative ultimately passed with 56 percent of the vote. Smith now serves as the co-chair of the Maine Citizens for Clean Elections Steering Committee.