I have been growing weary of this mocking by people who are concerned with things that I don't understand. I'm at once too old to listen to it, and too young to ignore it completely. At times I have just wanted to retreat into writing, and leave the public - the actively outward - part of my life behind. Indeed, while I walked on the Camino, I struggled with exactly this.
I read a letter from Jack Layton to his fellow Canadians today. When I was in law school, I recall reading a very early Charter case involving Jack Layton and the right to protest. I can't find the case right now - I'll have to go back into my archives to remember what exactly it was about. I should remember these things.
Layton should be thanked and remembered for his hope in the face of death and his wish for a country for my children that would cling to, and return to, the fundamental principles of democracy. The Charter is important. The rule of law is important. Canadians would do well to try to understand how these things work in practice, and what exactly it is that they protect.
It is relatively easy to live encased in concrete here in Canada, separate and apart from needing one's fellow humans most of the time. But anyone with an understanding of history knows that this is an odd state of affairs. Generally, humans have needed each other day to day, far more than this. We likely will need each other again at some future point.
If and when it comes time for the tide to turn, Canadians can now reach for this:
My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.
Jack Layton
I felt that Jack Layton's letter was very genuine, honest and vulnerable. I was very moved and inspired when I read it. Thank you too for your genuine, honest and vulnerable words.
ReplyDeleteAmen, Julie, from a another Lakeheader.
ReplyDeleteI am very happy to be reading you again. I have thoroughly enjoyed your book and I find your blogs help me to discern what is important. I too am a lawyer, mother of four, a bit older : ) but identify with your words. I do believe you to be a gifted writer and I do hope you will pursue this passion of yours.
ReplyDeleteAs for the letter in the National Post, I read it and was saddened by the journalist's comments, wondered where these sentiments came from. Perhaps envy, perhaps not understanding the importance of leaving a legacy, perhaps not understanding Mr. Layton's last wishes...
Thank you Anonymous! Needed to hear that....
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure. Not only do you have the talent, you have a gift. Sometimes we forget that our lives are not meant to be linear and opportunities do appear. The signs are most definitely there for you and I do hope you take full advantage of amazing opportunities.
ReplyDeleteAs for my previous post, I meant I read the article in the National Post and was saddened by the comments. I also read Mr. Layton's letter and found it's message to all Canadians to be honest, authentic and to strive to be the best that we can possibly be, to achieve our full human potential...
Good luck on all your future endeavors and your half marathon. I look forward to reading you in a near future.
Julie
Pinkos believe in a classless society where distribution of wealth is based on need not greed.
ReplyDeleteJack Layton was able to live the way he did in the public eye because he was honest and had integrity. He walked his talk every day of his life.