What's So Great About Government?

So I'm working on a story for an upcoming issue of Governing. I'm looking at what Gen X and Gen Y want out of a government job.

Is it stability?  Is it the pension?  The predictable hours?  The chance to do something for the public good?

If you're young, what was it that attracted you to a career in government?  Why did your friends take jobs in the private sector?

If you've got any ideas, I'd love to hear them.  Email me at zpatton@governing.com.