A month after announcing that he would run for the 10th Hampden state rep seat being vacated by Cheryl Coakley-Rivera, Sal Circosta has decided not to pursue the race after all.

I talked to Circosta earlier today about his decision for a story in next week’s Advocate. He was, as always, quite frank in his assessment of the local political scene.

You’re going to have to wait a few more days to read that story. In the meantime, though, here’s his announcement, in full, which he posted on Facebook:

“Over the past few weeks I have been seriously considering running for the 10th Hampden State Representative position now open. So seriously, that I even decided to throw my hat in. However, I feel as if my vocation is not politics at this time. For this reason, I will not run. I will back and endorse City Councilor Melvin Edwards because I believe he has a genuine love and care for the City of Springfield. Melvin is fundamentally a good man who will serve with honesty and integrity. To me, that goes a long way.

“Some people may ask why I am not running. My love for the truth is more important than my willingness to work with people who intentionally and purposefully promote institutions, persons, and ideologies which are contrary to the truth. There is a distinction between intelligent debate and emotional appeals. Unfortunately many people in politics today do whatever it takes for them to get elected, rather than stand for convicted truths which they truly and intelligently believe.

“The days of political honesty seem to be going away. My desire was to be an honest politician. I truly love and would be honored to serve the people of Springfield, the city that I was born and raised in. However, I am not sure if I will fit in. Dishonesty is not a trait I hold, nor is deception, hypocrisy, or conformability. I study and love the truth, and I will never settle for anything less.

“Please continue to pray for me and for our great city. I have hope that we will have a bright future. However, we need to stop relying on man and put our trust back in God. Truth is the essential foundation for anything that is good and worthy. My service needs to be directed at this time to the Church and to God’s work. Be assured of my prayers for each of you. God bless you.”