Whether we like it or not or whether he’s ready or not, our next Federal Government of the Dominion of Canada will be led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a flamboyant 43-year-old young man, who has somehow managed to supercharge his Liberal party into a strong 180 seat majority government. In just a few weeks, another Trudeau will assume the title of “Prime Minister”, hopefully poised and ready to carry on the colorful and often controversial political career and robust tradition of his father Pierre Elliot Trudeau, who carried the Liberal Party banner as the Prime Minister of Canada from April 1968 to June 1979 and from March 1980 to June 1984.
I have to admit that I have never been much of a Liberal supporter, but maybe this time around, during our longest ever federal election campaign, this very popular Liberal Party leader quietly took all the criticism in stride, then went out, hit the bricks from coast to coast, and simply out-worked and outwitted Harper, Mulcair and all the rest who were trying to grab the best share of the fancy seats on Parliament Hill. As always, after all the election results were in around 10 p.m., the media had offered their opinions and added lots of ‘fluff’ along the way, and the party leaders had presented their evening wrap-up speeches in order of finish, it has now gone right back to the proud Canadian citizens for their opinions on what our fate might be for the next four years.
Whether we were shocked, ecstatic or devastated the next morning over those final results, everyone 18 years of age and over and from all walks of life across our nation who went out and cast a ballot and expressed their right of choice should be very proud that they have contributed to one of the best voter turnouts in a federal election for decades, including 71 per cent of eligible voters in Alberta, and 68.5 per cent across the nation. Just like the NDP invasion that we saw sweep across our province in the recent provincial election, in the wake of the October 19 Liberal surge into power, we need to have a little patience, stay in touch with our MPs, and let them get on with the very tough and challenging task of leading our nation into a bright and successful future that will complement our world class reputation. Anyways, congratulations to each and every party candidate from province to province for boldly expressing the energy and the willingness to represent your Nation in a most vital leadership role.
It is the little things that tug at the heart strings.
Like so many others, our family loves to get out and walk amongst nature, and at this time of the year, it doesn’t really matter if we have to put on the cold weather coat with the hoody, take along a pair of gloves, pull on the long-johns, or pop into the coffee shop along the way for a ‘warm-me-up’ hot chocolate or whatever. The warmest feeling of the occasion comes when most everyone we meet extends a smile, a greeting, or stops to chat, takes an extra moment to hold the door for someone else, or as motorist let everyone gets safely across the cross-walks, and takes special attention in the school or playground zones. I am always totally overwhelmed by those wonderful individuals and groups who walk, run, ride, swim, or whatever for all sorts of special community causes, as well as those who so willingly look to their hearts and reach into their pockets to assist those in need of a boost.
*The other day we were strolling through the park and met with two older ladies who were walking their dogs. One puppy was toddling along slowly on a leash while the other was sitting up in a small baby carriage, and when we asked why, the lady explained that her older pup had suffered a back injury and was unable to walk, cried when everyone else went out, and so they purchased a mini-buggy from the local pet store and she hasn’t missed an outing since. A smile and a tear came to our eyes as we watched them stroll slowly along the trail and stopped to visit with everyone, young and old to introduce their canine buddies.
*Last week in St. George, Ontario the whole town responded in support of a young boy who loved Christmas. Unfortunately the lad was suffering in the last stages of a brain tumour, and just in case he may not make it until December 25, they all came together to turn the friendly community into Christmas in October, including decorations, presents, parties, lights, a parade, and of course a visit from Santa Claus.
Adolescence is that frustrating period when our children begin to question the answers. Even though the snow has yet to fly and the warm winds of fall are still blowing, it is that time of the year when we should be getting our free flu shot. Please check the posters and paper for clinic dates, then do what’s best for the health and well being of you and your family, and have a great week, all of you.