Category Archives: community

Balancing act

09 Friday Jun 2017

Posted by in community, Health, therapy

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Can Canada heal itself from within while strengthening its international leadership role? 

I was pleased and proud to see our Minister of Foreign Affairs and Federal Government take a stand about world leadership and show support for the Paris climate treaty.

We are a welcoming people to immigration of political and religious refugees. Our constitution protects religious freedom. Our nation though seems to be struggling with appropriate ways to support healing of the Indigenous people in forms of reconciliation.

I am surprised and ashamed that different levels of government are not recognizing Indigenous spirituality with the respect and attention it deserves. I am in disbelief that a condo developer has been allowed to slither in to make offers and divide the very people that could benefit from restoring a sacred site in the middle of our nation’s capital. Read this analogous story describing the history and present challenges. Read about the vision of a spiritual elder.

Why offer an abandoned US Embassy building without wide consultation? Why not summon the political will and heart to lead in an opportunity for healing?

As a mother, settler descendant and citizen, I once again feel compelled to show my support for restoring the sacred site in the Ottawa River. I will take a day off from my professional role to walk with hundreds of others from an island at the site, to begin a peaceful march up to Parliament Hill.

You can too. Let your god or spirits call to us as the right thing to do.

#Canada150 #Reconcilation #Healing #Leadership

Thank you.

T

Why are you here?

20 Sunday Nov 2016

Posted by in community, libraries, philosophy, writing

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That question was recently asked by what could have been a younger, curious version of myself.

A few times each month, I spend three hours of bliss volunteering in a small bookshop.

I get to meet interesting people, stroke and skim through the latest items placed on the shelves. Not a month goes by without me purchasing something of interest to me or someone I love. I like the fact that sales revenues go towards purchasing new books and supporting programs for our local libraries. Being in that book shop is the closest I can get to working in a library – for now  🙂

My recent volunteer shift was graced by the usual lingering regulars and families attending events nearby. It warms my heart when children express delight as they find a book or two that they want their parents to buy.

One particular tot caught my attention while exploring books with her older sister, parents and grandmother. She approached the front desk, her blonde head barely above the counter, her blue eyes peering at me.

“What’s your name?” she asked in a sweet and barely audible voice.

I responded with a smile and asked about hers. Her Mother responded on her behalf due to the child’s limited conversation skills.

Then the child asked, “Why are you here?”

“Why am I here? Well… I like books, I like meeting new people and selling them books.”

Then she skittered away to explore the shelves with her family.

Soon she returned to ask again “Why are you here?”.

After I repeated my previous response I wanted to ask the wee thing if she was being philosophical about the big picture but I decided it would just confuse matters.

It was cute. It was thought-provoking in a naive kind of way.

I think that was a helpful experience for those basic queries we should ask ourselves often, like “Why am I here?”.

If we cannot answer the why, we could at least ask, “What am I doing during my time here?”.

T

Reminders for the love of life

06 Sunday Nov 2016

Posted by in community, Health, libraries, pets, Travel

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I recently contemplated the delicate balance of life and human relationships.

An elderly relative passed away after years of loneliness from losing a spouse, falling into unhealthy habits and an unpleasant lifestyle.

Those of us who were able to travel for the funeral benefited from reconnecting with each other and catching up with old friends in the town of our birth. The occasion gave a sobering twist to Halloween and All Souls Day.

It was a long journey for a short visit. The surrounding events provided opportunities to hear stories from others who knew your relative for years or recently formed friendships through shared interests.The sombre experience reminds you to enjoy times with those beings you love and cherish despite their shortcomings.

You venture into the new version of the church you once attended a lifetime ago, the religion you abandoned due to differences of opinion. You reach into the crevices of your memory for that sense of community and shared values. You notice they transported the large crucifix from the old church, the one with the bleeding savior you could not look at as a child. You find the strength and spirit to join in song, to celebrate a life and provide a smooth, harmonious send-off to the next dimension.

You contemplate how we should treat our deceased with respect and dignity. Without getting too elaborate, I feel it’s important to plan ahead for your own funeral, to make decisions for your mortal remains, to lessen stress on loved-ones, and put your house in order.

Although emotionally and physically drained, you enjoy companionship on short, refreshing strolls about town and down memory lane.

parrysoundcprnov2016

Shuffling through the fallen leaves, you visit the streets, the town park and the library where you recall misadventures and fond memories plus learn to enjoy new experiences. You let yourself laugh, share updates and hopes for your children. You dream of a future with the grandchildren who have entered your life and nestled into your heart.

As you contemplate the next decade of your independent life, you are determined to continue with those small changes to improve your health, to reconsider compromise and expectations. You tolerate the brief interruptions and annoyances, knowing that they too shall pass.

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Breathing in. Breathing out.  Repeating as necessary.

Thanks for dropping by.

T

 

 

 

Millennial matters

10 Sunday Jul 2016

Posted by in community, philosophy, writing

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I am riding that Baby Boomer tail. 

I am also the caboose in one resilient and large Catholic family.

I am a white woman, a parent and a survivor. As a woman over 50 I feel invisible to most eligible men. I do not have a reliable partner, don’t own my home nor can I afford to travel to tropical locations every winter. I will be lucky if I can retire in comfort by the time I turn 60 years old.

Whenever discussing retirement plans with friends or colleagues, I joke that my insurance was to be extra patient with and kind to my children so that they will take care of me in my old age.

My beautiful adult children are Millennials. They are testing out their respective paths, life purpose and independence. Some are taking a little longer than others due to childhood trauma or the ridiculous limitations of the economy.

My Millennials were not handed everything on a platter. We were barely scraping by in the early years while surviving home life with an unstable, controlling individual.

It saddens and frustrates me when the older generations and entertainers poke fun at Millennials.

You’ve Gotta Love Millennials – Micah Tyler
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLpE1Pa8vvI

A few weeks ago, my oldest Millennial and I watched a documentary on TVO (TV Ontario).  It was interesting but discouraging.

My Millennial Life

“Millennials are getting dumped on from all sides – from parents, employers and the economy. “My Millennial Life” takes a look through the eyes of a group of resourceful, charming and talented 20-somethings and the obstacles and opportunities they face in getting launched and making their mark on the world.”

Then there was this article on CBC News:

Still living with mom and dad? You are not alone, and the numbers prove it
Almost a third of 18- to 34-year-olds still live at home, data shows
http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/young-people-living-at-home-1.3599364

I love my Millennial room-mate who cooks healthy meals, cleans the humble apartment once a week, and looks after the cats while I am away – all the while using artistic skills to earn a modest income.

On a related, rippling note I am sad to acknowledge recent violent events south of the border. Some parental concerns and human rights issues catch your interest even more so if your Millennials are also dark-skinned, dealing with social anxieties or are gay.

They would seem to be fncked whichever way they turn. I know they can overcome challenges with courage, intelligence and strength of character.

I believe in them.

T

Support for Chaudière Falls Area

11 Saturday Jun 2016

Posted by in community, Health, therapy

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During the winter of 2016 I sat beside a woman on the city bus on my way home after a long day’s work. We talked about the recent heavy snowfall, the little plastic shovel I purchased at the dollar store, apartments, balconies and our cats. I found another kindred spirit!

The conversation turned to the purpose of her evening bus ride to attend a meeting for an important cause. She introduced herself as one of the Indigenous Grandmothers. She shared the history and the sacred importance of the Chaudière Falls then handed me some literature containing more information and site links.

I have been following the issue since, mentioning it to others who might listen. On Wednesday evening, I attended the information session, panel discussion on saving the Chaudière Falls from further commercial development and planning for the June 17th walk.

Although I do not like being in the middle of noisy crowds, I am willing to join them and to invite others along. With good conscience and spiritual respect, I feel I must.

Grandmother Christine’s story: https://freethefalls.ca/news/a-grandmothers-story-from-asinabka/

With a collective conscience, we must ask if Ottawa really needs more condos, if the federal government has the political will, compassion to repair damage by the former governments and flawed development approval processes at all levels. Ask if it is finally time to return this sacred land to our indigenous people, a place for sharing with all people.

Thank you.

T

Green Living Ottawa

Posted by Denise Deby.

It is sacred poster

Three Four upcoming events are focused on protecting the area around Chaudière Falls in the Ottawa River.

They’re prompted by concerns about development proposals for the area, which is considered sacred by many Indigenous peoples.

On Wednesday, June 8, 2016, a panel discussion will take a critical look at the “Zibi” development project. “Reconcilation Needs Justice – Stop Windmill’s ‘Zibi’ Condos on Sacred Algonquin Land” will be at 7 p.m. at the Ottawa Public Library’s Main Branch (120 Metcalfe St.) Speakers are Algonquin Elder Albert Dumont, former Ottawa city councilor Clive Doucet, and Stop Windmill group co-founder Cathy Remus.

On Monday, June 13, 2016, Albert Dumont will talk about the protection and restoration of the Sacred Site at Chaudière Falls and the Islands, through the lens of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It’s at 7 p.m. at…

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Alone in a crowd

05 Sunday Jun 2016

Posted by in community, pets, philosophy, reading, Travel

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Do you enjoy your solitude? Do you find it conducive to navel-gazing and existential contemplations?

Do you alternately feel a sense of inclusion and connectedness when in a crowd of like-minded strangers?

I do.

One way I experience the latter is to treat myself to a personal adventure on the Doors Open Ottawa tours. This was the third year that I explored the city on my own, learned new things, admired architecture and met other interesting humans.

Yesterday’s weather was perfect for being in the sun, walking, busing, touring around Ottawa.

My first stop was a disappointment. It seems that arriving at noon is too late to get on the guided tour list for the temple of online commerce, Shopify.

Still determined for urban exercise and discovery, I walked from Elgin Street all the way to my next desired stop, The Temple of Science.

Science. Apologies for this ear worm coming at you.

I arrived tired and sweaty at the National Research Council Canada (NRC) – Temple of Science on Sussex Drive. After freshening up in the ladies room and refilling my water bottle, I unwittingly jumped the queue, ignoring protocol by inserting myself into the next guided tour group. I blame it on the heat.

It was a very interesting, fast-paced walking tour. Kudos to the staff and volunteers.

 

The wait on Sussex Drive for the OC Transpo bus downtown was very long. The buses were not obeying the GPS offerings according to various smart phone apps shared by me and my random companions. At least we had a bench in the shade of nearby trees. People came and sat. Some gave up and started walking.

It wasn’t the first time I used a park bench for deep thinking activities. I had plenty of time for people-watching, casual conversation, contemplating the Universe, and … catching up on some reading.  I really hope to finish Masters of Time this weekend!

comic speech bubbles of black cat critiquing human reading efforts

 

Waiting for another bus on construction-cramped Rideau Street provided a different lens into humanity, social interactions of ragtag gangs rallying back and forth in some loud, shared purpose. I was relieved when the next bus finally arrived.

Next stop was the Saint-François d’Assise Church, another temple of sorts. It was cool and quiet except when someone was demonstrating the organ (!). I admired the wooden pews, the statues and all those candles.

Presque tous les panneaux d’information et de la littérature était en français! 

Les gens sympathiques à la réception m’a remis le seul pamphlet anglais. Heureusement pour moi, je continue avec l’apprentissage de la langue de ma mère. 

Now resting and reflecting on a rainy Sunday morning, I plan to head out for another educational tour. I think I convinced one of the young people to join me.

On a parting note, here is something else to contemplate:

The odds are overwhelming that we’re characters in an advanced civilization’s computer simulation.  See:  http://qz.com/699518/we-talked-to-the-oxford-philosopher-who-gave-elon-musk-the-theory-that-we-are-all-computer-simulations/

Thanks for stopping by.

T

From the journals of a stubborn Survivor

23 Monday May 2016

Posted by in community, Health, writing

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This post is not typical of my light-hearted thoughts and tongue-in-cheek observations. 

This is a serious one about getting results through persistence and respectful dialogue with those who help to initiate change in Canada’s criminal justice system.

Over the past three years, I experienced stress and heightened anxieties while enduring glaring flaws and gaps in our system that seemed to favour offenders’ preferences, privacy and rights over their victims’. Each time and after expressing a “what the fnck?” reaction with family and friends, I embraced patience and politeness.

I converted my frustration and anger into a stubborn strength to express my concerns and offer recommendations to those who maintain the criminal justice system.

I pulled out pen and paper and made notes. I took to my trusty QWERTY keyboard and tapped away.

pen and paper

I wrote about the sequence of events, the government agencies I contacted, the circles I had to retrace then break through in order to ensure my personal safety. Although I allowed myself some emotional expression, I stuck to the facts when communicating with officials.

For the past six months I managed my stress and struggled to carry on with the love of my family, support of friends and a professional listener. I like to think I maintained a professional persona as a productive member of my community, of a civil society.

It hasn’t been easy.

I am thankful for the first responders and individuals in the justice systems who helped us get through tough periods since 2003. Yes, that long ago. If I did not personally thank you during the emotional times shortly after, please accept this delayed expression of gratitude.

I feel vindicated that my concerns and recommendations since 2012 have been heard by the Office of the Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime (OFOVC), documented, verified, then communicated to those who can make changes.

I feel a sense of pride that my persistence is paying off to speak up for victims of crime whose anxieties have likely caused them to walk away from the confusing processes, and not wanting to be victimized again.

Victims and Survivors of Crime Week 2016

“Victims and Survivors of Crime Week is an annual outreach initiative of the Justice Canada Policy Centre for Victim Issues.

The goal of Victims and Survivors of Crime Week is to raise awareness about the issues facing victims and survivors of crime and the services and laws in place to help victims, survivors and their families. It is also about acknowledging the dedicated work of service providers who assist victims and survivors of crime and their families.

Victims and Survivors of Crime Week will take place from May 29 to June 4, 2016. The theme for the Week is “The Power of Our Voices.” The Week will include projects and events in communities across the country and a federal symposium in the National Capital Region on Friday, June 3, 2016.

Victims and Survivors of Crime Week evolved out of the annual National Victims of Crime Awareness Week. Survivors of crime are now included in the name of the week to acknowledge the many individuals who, having been victims of crime, overcome their victimization and identify themselves more affirmatively as survivors. ”

Source:  http://www.victimsweek.gc.ca/abt-apd/index.html

I am a survivor.

I am in the middle of being alive

BEing ALiVE

T

 

2015 deep blonde thoughts in review

02 Saturday Jan 2016

Posted by in community, philosophy, Warm fuzzy, writing

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Hey! Thanks to the visitors, Likers and commenters on this blog in 2015. I am touched – virtually.

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2015 annual report for this blog.

Here’s an excerpt:

A San Francisco cable car holds 60 people. This blog was viewed about 1,800 times in 2015. If it were a cable car, it would take about 30 trips to carry that many people.

Click here to see the complete report.

1 park bench, 2 trees, 4 seasons

11 Tuesday Aug 2015

Posted by in Art, community, Health, photography

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There is this bench in a downtown Ottawa park.

This spring someone painted it as well as its companions. This artistic act seemed to brighten up the park, making it more attractive. I think it was to encourage people to visit often, to absorb the urban nature and engage in conversation.

park bench painted spring

Dundonald Park bench Spring 2015

I enjoy visiting urban parks around Ottawa and learning about their history.  During vacation time in the Summer of 2013, I tried to visit as many as I could in one week:

It was an enjoyable, obsessive activity that got me out and about while exploring my city.

Wander back to Dundonald Park in the late summer of 2014.

I looked forward to sitting on this particular green bench during work day lunch breaks, during my attempts at exercise, fresh air and time for quiet reflection. It was also more pleasant since the Beer Store across Somerset Street was being demolished and there were less bottle and can collectors hanging about.

This bench was a familiar place to rest and observe my surroundings. It helped me review my life choices, smile at my accomplishments and ponder my future plans.

I would observe the passersby and occasionally watch the families with young children playing on the nearby swings and slides.

I would look down while deep in thought.

I would look up with gratitude for what relief and small fortunes came my way.

I admired the two tall trees that touched at their crowns and upper limbs.

Park trees September 2014

Park trees September 2014

In the late summer of 2014, I noticed the colours changing in the nearby trees. One lost its leaves quicker than the other did. I felt a connection with them and their transition through the seasons. Some whimsically obsessive part of me wanted to capture them each time I visited the park.

So, with my smart phone I would attempt to take photographs at least on a bi-weekly basis.

Autumn 2014 trees

Autumn 2014

Park trees Winter 2015

Park trees Winter 2015

park bench winter

Dundonald Park bench Winter 2015

I did not get any pictures during February. Fuck February. If I could, I would hibernate from January to the end of March. How about you? 

Park Trees Spring 2015

Park Trees Spring 2015

I missed one of my spring shots in early May because people were sitting on my favourite bench during one of my visits. I ran out of time waiting for them to move.

Would it have seemed strange for me to approach them and ask if they could move for one minute, so I could take a couple of pictures? 

Within two weeks, the trees were already bursting with bright green foliage. This was refreshing.

Park trees May 2015

Park Trees May 2015

During a rainy vacation day this week in late summer, I decided to create slideshows of different transitioning tree pictures while tinkering in iPhoto on my Mac. I created a very nice one of the two companion trees and exported to QuickTime Movie format.

Unfortunately, WordPress.com doesn’t allow .mov file uploads! That’s okay. I tinkered a bit longer with photographs I uploaded to a Media Gallery and created this slideshow instead.  I hope you enjoy it.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Thanks for dropping by.  I hope you’re having an enjoyable summer.

T

Keeners and coffee drinkers

24 Sunday May 2015

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For most of this week, I was up and out of the house earlier than usual.

I was not bright-eyed and bushy-tailed yet I was fuelled on at least one cup of instant coffee in addition to a rushed breakfast. I think my early departures had one of the cats concerned although he received his breakfast and a hug from the servant woman –  plus she took time to scoop out the litter box.

Black cat in bed with comic bubble

I attended a three-day conference that is prominent in my annual learning plan at the work place.  This year’s theme was Design Your Destiny. Live the Change. I was pleased when organizers announced the theme many months ago.

It was great to catch up with old volunteer acquaintances, to listen to interesting session presentations and inspiring keynote speakers.  We were well-fed, body and mind.  By Friday afternoon I was tuckered out, body and mind despite the nutritious meals and copious cups of coffee during the day.

As an introverted person, I can become overwhelmed and tired out after too much socializing and networking.  I need to retreat to a quiet corner to rest, reflect and re-energize. I am not being rude :-] 

At least I managed to focus and scratch out handwritten notes in the program booklet and identify key points. This afternoon, I deciphered my handwriting and created a point-form report (in the rare event that my boss would ask). Next I created a word cloud (Thanks, Wordle) to highlight the frequent words from key messages.

word cloud

Word cloud from key points in my conference notes

This weekend, I started my first day of a new volunteer gig that requires less time sitting. Momma needs to move her body more.

Due to a combination of communication assumptions by a resident message-taker and unintentional omissions, I arrived by city bus three hours early.

That’s okay.  I was able to take in a healthy walk, have an early lunch and become familiar with my surroundings.  The ensuing volunteer activity was slightly overwhelming yet provided an educational experience. It was the beginning of new opportunities to support literacy in my community. I look forward to more.

Today, I serendipitously tripped upon a quote by one of my favourite authors:

I can control my destiny, but not my fate. Destiny means there are opportunities to turn right or left, but fate is a one-way street. I believe we all have the choice as to whether we fulfil our destiny, but our fate is sealed. ~ Paulo Coelho

During web distractions between today’s glamorous domestic duties, I also learned possible explanations why cats bolt from their litter boxes after pooping and run around the house like fools.

Now you know too. You’re welcome. 

Cat box haiku. Apologies to the serious poets.

Thanks for dropping by.

T