Distracted and considering the long term influence of this decision, how it can feel so close to home.

Feeling anger at reports of barbaric, misogynistic acts by dark forces purporting to represent a belief system of Peace. Canada is sending our people into a hornet’s nest with factions fighting within factions. Keep our people off the ground in this mission to fight the good fight, to support a “just battle”.

My heart, my thoughts, my nonbeliever prayers go out to the ordinary citizens, the women and children caught in the middle.

From the “Don’t be a dick” files… What is the world coming to when a Leprechaun-ish character displays impolite, nay! RUDE behaviour on public transit? His mother must have seen the pictures all over the Internet by now and would be so ashamed. I’m sure she and her mate would have done their best to raise him well. Maybe not. Maybe that’s what it comes down to, that our children need good examples to follow and not just fear of the rod. Good behaviour and character are formed early. With all the crazy sh*t going on in our world, we can still be civilized individuals and groups in showing good manners and respect. Our children are watching and learning. T

My sisters and I encountered housekeeping tip envelopes when we stayed at Best Western in Quebec City this summer. Although we declined services during our three-day stay, some of us left a little something before checking out. I agree with some comments on this article that if someone is being paid to make sure your room is clean or that your food is served as ordered, intact and on time, why is there an expectation to tip? Tip fatigue indeed!