It’s the same advice I got 26 years ago.

Pick your spots.

Don’t stick your nose and your voice into lots of issues. Become knowledgeable and respected on a few issues instead.

I had just been elected to the House of Delegates when a former committee chairman gave me this advice.

Today, a freshman delegate was about to participate in an informal gathering of members to discuss the legislation pending before us.

“If there’s one bill you feel comfortable talking about, do it,” I advised, “For most of the bills, just listen and learn.”

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Many hurdles still to clear before reaching the Governor’s desk, but important steps along that way today on two issues.

Lilly Ledbetter got a favorable vote in subcommittee. Next stop the full committee, where positive action also likely.

The death penalty repeal bill won’t die in a Senate committee. It will be considered by the full body, according to news reports.

Governor O’Malley acknowledged yesterday that we’re two votes shy of the 24 votes needed. He will now use his persuasiveness, moral authority, and powers of the office as he meets with undecided senators.

In our strategy for repeal over the last 2+ years, the Governor’s efforts have always been crucial.

So we’re entering the 7th inning, and as Earl Weaver would say when he maneuvered the other manager into bringing in a right-handed reliever so that he could pinch hit Terry Crowley: “The gun is loaded.”