Renewal of spirit

West-coast living taught me some insights into maintaining a balanced life. Like almost everyone I know, I find balance to be an absolute - and yet incredibly fleeting - necessity.

While it has taken a few days of vacation time to start getting into 'letting go' mode, I'm finally achieving that combined state of relaxation and inspiration.

Whether reading or vegging in front of a video or listening to favourite music or napping or reflecting, I'm starting to feel that sense of groundedness again.

I've also been following through on ways to build a more spiritual life here in Toronto - something that's eluded me while getting the more fundamental aspects in place. I'm very excited to have found a holistic health centre that I'll be visiting tomorrow. I have just registered for yoga classes and related lectures there as well. Throughout the fall, I'm planning to attend a host of literary events at the Library, plus concerts and theatre around the city. And despite this ultra-urban setting, I'm determined to connect more deliberately with nature, as it's definitely all around.

With the arrival of Autumn, I'm feeling a renewed sense of connection and gratitude. That's more like it!

Precious time

As we get older, time starts to pass more quickly and the milestones accumulate.

This year has been exceptional in that regard - two uncles turned 80 and one 75, my parents are celebrating their 50th anniversary, my sister and her husband their 25th, and some old friends and I just marked 30 years since we started university.

Not one of us feels as though that many years have gone by. And yet these points in time serve to remind us to appreciate our accomplishments and each other. And more than that, to take the time to celebrate it all.

Cheers!

Going Public

The Political Spectrum Quiz

Dawn is a left moderate social libertarian. Dawn is also a non-interventionist and culturally liberal.

Dawn's scores (from 0 to 10):

Economic issues:+3.62 left

Social issues:+1.1 libertarian

Foreign policy:+4.79 non-interventionist

Cultural identification:+4.84 liberal

Category:political quizzes

According to the Political Spectrum Quiz on facebook, I'm a left moderate social libertarian as well as being a non-interventionist and culturally liberal. Regardless of the source, this seems pretty accurate to me and when illustrated on a graph, it appears that I couldn't be much closer to dead centre (though left-leaning all the same).

When situated near the centre, rationalizing a stand on various issues can be a bit precarious. Why supportive of government-funded health care, but not of government management of other activities? Why is it ok to publicly administer (un)employment insurance but not provide handouts to failing businesses?

The reasoning for me is that we must differentiate between a universal obligation to look after each other as individuals and the need to let bona fide businesses succeed or fail independently from government interference.

I believe that the mandate of government is to provide strong leadership while competently managing as transparently as possible. Of primary importance is the delivery of universal social services - those areas that would not necessarily deliver a short term monetary return on investment, but are critical to ensuring longer term quality of life for all.

With this lens in place, some recent events have resonated for me:

- this week's dismantling of crown corporation Tourism British Columbia, a highly successful destination marketing organzation, so it can be absorbed into the government of BC. This after 12 years of outstanding achievements on behalf of the tourism industry and many communities throughout the province. It seems counterproductive, as at risk is the marketing discipline and creativity of Tourism BC which has flourished at arms length from government.

- the recent bail outs of big banks and two of three big auto companies in North America. Should our governments be supporting businesses that have failed due to lack of vision and fiscal management? I don't believe they should, although the impact on so many individuals' livelihood, pensions and communities make this one a lot less clear. It seems that creative thinking in government and business, might have come up with wiser, more sustainable solutions.

- the ongoing debate re. universal health care in the US which is dragging other nations' systems into the discussion. This one is of course a no-brainer from my perspective. It's an excellent example of why universal social programs are required because if left only to business and right-leaning ideologues, anyone in need of health care without positions of wealth or power are left to flounder without a social safety net.

NB: As many know, I worked with Tourism British Columbia for six years and have much admiration for the operation, management and staff at the world-renowned and award-winning destination marketing organization.

Tranquility

Oh the joy of soaking in the scenery during a summertime getaway. Amid the day-to-day hustle bustle, it's rejuvenating to have some time to just be in nature. Last week while staying at a friend's cottage, I opted to remain fixed on the dock, simply watching the weather go by, reading from time to time, and mostly just enjoying regular visits from a variety of duck families.

An idyllic way to unwind and feel grounded once again. Ahhh...

Birthday Boy

I love watching four-year-olds at their birthday celebrations. For the first time it seems, fully enjoying the idea of a party just for them, able to engage with everyone and coming into themselves as kids.

Here he is hanging out with his 14-year-old cousin - having fun and feeling like a big boy!

As nieces and nephews go, this is number six and it's just such a charming age to see every time.

A life well-lived

Time is short. Life goes on. There's no time like the present.

Live in the moment. Live each day as though it's your last. Breathe it all in. Take time to smell the roses.

We hear these sentiments on a regular basis and they usually serve, fleetingly, as reminders to live our lives consciously. With purpose, with a focus on what's truly important. Family and friends. Neighbours and community. With faith and love and compassion. Giving to others, contributing to the good of all. With grace and good humour.

Today, I attended the funeral of a colleague who exemplified all of this and then some. Someone who overcame a lot of adversity in life, while always supporting others with strength and a genuine smile. I didn't have the chance to get to know Anna Kwan well, but know that she touched the lives of so many of her friends and colleagues and customers at the Library for more than 20 years. And in hearing of her family and personal life, it was clear that Anna's large spirit and strong will had an even more profound impact.

"It is hard to say goodbye, when goodbye seems too soon" was communicated by Anna's eldest daughter Deborah. Although she and her sister Jennifer will miss their Mom tremendously, they must have been comforted seeing how many came to say goodbye and pay their respect to Anna today.

There is no question that Anna made so many feel loved, supported and welcomed - demonstrating a life that truly has made a difference to those who knew her well and those who benefitted from her dedicated commitment to helping others.

I've loved you so long

I'd heard about this movie when reviewers were citing the incredible performance by Kristin Scott Thomas. She has always been impressive and I made a mental note to see it. I finally got the chance, and was wowed by the story and peformances of Thomas and the actor playing her sister, Elsa Zylberstein.

'I've loved you so long' (Il y a longtemps que je t'aime) is a beautifully written and directed portrayal of a woman just released from prison after 15 years. Juliette appears as a shell of herself, cautiously re-integrating into society and her own life. Thankfully, Lea, her younger sister has never forgotten nor given up on her, despite her horrible, heart-breaking crime.

The beauty of this story is the enduring love of a sister, the healing impact of this support and the ultimate re-emergence of a woman who'd been dealt a sorrowful choice to make. Thomas and Zylberstein are tremendous as they portray this reconnection after so long.

Marathon weekend with my pals Yasmin & Perry

A few pic's from Ottawa's Marathon weekend - May 23-24. It was spectacular spring weather and over 36,000 runners were there to take part in various runs leading up to the half and full marathons on Sunday.

Perry ran his very first marathon and did really well - very inspiring indeed!! Yasmin and I were the cheering section at both the 20 k and 41.25 k marks - here's Perry blasting past with just 750 m to go!

And here's Yasmin happily cheering him on - what a lot of prep went into this on both their parts!

Hugs to Yasmin & Perry for a wonderful birthday and time away and for allowing me to be part of this very momentous occasion.

Only drawback - I think I committed to running the 5 k with Yasmin next year... hmmm...

Sunday Morning

Today was CBC Television`s last broadcast of CBC News: Sunday a terrific two-hour start to every Sunday for Canadians for the past 8 years. Hosted by Carole MacNeil and Evan Solomon, it has featured regional, national & international stories - in all areas of interest.

Topics have included the range from moving and inspiring to confounding and anger-provoking. As mentioned today, many have been moved to action after finding out about a situation in Canada or somewhere else in the world.

Pieces of note for me have included seeing an 80+ year old Flora MacDonald travelling to Afghanistan. For several years, her Foundation has supported a village there with funding for power for lighting so the children can attend school rather than spend daylight hours making carpets to support their families. Seeing her still active - and encouraging girls and women to be politically involved - was truly an inspiration.

Or the story of Dr. Mark Nowashinsky, the doctor who gave up his practice to go on the road delivering home-based care for Toronto`s seniors while advocating for improvements to senior health care in Ontario.

Or the story of Palestinian and Jewish youth participating in a filmmaking camp in Canada - learning to become friends and look at life from different perspectives before returning back to their lives in Israel.

Every Sunday morning brought a combination of views on news, politics, spirituality, sports, music, film, culture and other areas of focus - all from intelligent and very Canadian points of view.

Like the hundreds watching the show live in Toronto this morning, I`m sad to see CBC News: Sunday cancelled - a victim of the recent CBC budget cuts. This high quality program has been a unique contribution to Canada and will surely be missed.

Hitting the road

Vacation's finally here!

Just about to head off to spend time with family, then for a road trip to Muskoka, followed by a visit to Ottawa.

So far, the sun's shining, music's ready, suitcase is almost packed, and very soon, I'll disconnect from e-communications. It'll be a true test of my resolve to take a break, be in the moment and deny my online habit.

Wish me luck and have a great week!

Trying Twitter

Being in communications, I know how important (and sometimes daunting) it is to keep up on the trends. Of course, everyone is now well aware of the micro-blogging phenome, Twitter, which has been the talk of all media channels for the past number of months. While I joined Twitter a year ago, I didn't really get it until earlier this year. 

It's a powerful communications form that blends many aspects of life in one place. Used well (I'm definitely still learning), it's a dynamic and convenient way to monitor volumes and volumes of news, updates and opinions while sharing the same. 

That said, Twitter also feeds the already problematic online addiction begun with blogging, facebook, the blackberry et al. Time consuming it is to make and manage all the connections that comprise our social networks. A good example: I need to drag myself away from this laptop right now - grocery shopping is still waiting!

It'll be interesting to see how all of this nets out, but for now, I plan to keep exploring - both from a personal and professional perspective. 

For his hilarious take, check out Stephen Colbert's chat with Biz Stone, Twitter co-founder. And then make sure you follow both!

Question

A friend and I were chatting about an interesting observation. 

Why is it that people who generally behave badly are accepted as such and people who are generally respectful and empathetic toward others are judged if they have a so-called 'emotional' moment of weakness and react out of character? 

It seems quite unfair and hypocritical and yet a fairly common thing. It's no reason to become a narcissist, but sometimes it seems that life would be easier as one.

Inspiring medical care

Toronto is fortunate to count Dr. Mark Nowashinsky among its dedicated citizens. See this CBC piece on his efforts to care for senior patients in the city with house calls, as well as his advocacy for improved home-based health care services. Compelling, inspiring and another wake up to the need for more realistic and effective health care reform in Ontario and Canada. Especially as the ranks of older adults will continue to swell in the coming decades. 

This doctor with a camera is a true visionary. 

Happy International Women's Day

Thanks to Sandra for sharing - have always loved this tribute to women by Peter Gabriel and Youssou N'Dour.

Literacy, learning and the love of reading

Working at a library continues to provide many new insights for me. A major one is the role of literacy in all of our lives.

Admittedly, I have taken my own literacy for granted. Having been raised in a family and society that nurtured learning, I was lucky to have all the opportunities required to build a life based on choice. 

My affinity for books and reading has been a lifelong affair - one that I continue to encourage in my nieces and nephews on every occasion with books as gifts. I've always had a somewhat romantic dream of owning a book store and spending my days learning and sharing the inspiration that comes along with reading. 

Since beginning work at TPL, I've begun to see first hand just what a role we play in the lives of thousands of people. Our services beyond simply lending books are tremendous, ranging from early learning resources to adult literacy to ESL to computer training to youth volunteering groups to literary programs and beyond. From providing access to the basics to instilling the love of reading, libraries everywhere provide such an amazing foundation for society.

What has especially struck me are two things: 

1. There are so many stats regarding how critical literacy is to pre-school age children as it will impact their success throughout school and into their adult lives
2. There are so many inspirational stories of how literacy programs have changed peoples' lives - whether as children, adults and even as seniors

We recently featured several of these 'success' stories in a Foundation campaign including that of a woman who at age 60 went through our literacy program after putting her four children through university. Originally from Jamaica, she was then able to complete her Canadian citizenship exam and now feels liberated by her new found abilities and sense of pride.

Another young woman was part of our leading to reading program when in grade 2 and went on to volunteer at the library in high school before becoming a high school teacher herself.

Lawrence Hill, award-winning author of The Book of Negroes, was interviewed on CBC today and he mentioned that one of the reasons for the salvation of his main character was the early literacy instilled by her father. Stolen from her African village she endures slavery in the American south, amid other challenges, and is sustained by her sense of hope and her desire to read and understand and eventually return home. This struck me as he felt it important to convey this early-learned knowledge stayed with her and contributed to her resilience throughout her life. 

Librarians, staff and volunteers working with individuals every day are nurturing the need for knowledge and personal growth. The spirit of public service that exists throughout our system of 99 branches is quite stunning. While I've worked in other public organizations, I'm still learning about just how deep that passion runs here. As well as the level of the public's trust in this role we play providing free, democratic access to a wealth of information within safe and welcoming public spaces.

And then there's simply the joy of reading that is encouraged through book clubs, author readings and a host of programs that connect readers to books, writers and each other. Pretty inspiring stuff.

Photo: Daily Mail, UK

Thanking Paul Martin

I was fortunate to attend the Toronto Public Library Foundation's Book Lover's Ball on February 12, which was great fun and a memorable occasion. The Ball is an annual event for library supporters including many of Toronto's philanthropic and political leaders as well as 56 of Canada's outstanding authors. Writers attending included Margaret Atwood, Alissa York, Joy Fielding, M.G. Vassanji, Paul Quarrington, Russell Smith, Vincent Lam, Wayson Choy, Debbie Travis, Ian Brown, Dan Hill, Jan Wong and Christie Blatchford, among many more.

My highlight, however, was realizing that former Prime Minister Paul Martin was there (having recently released his memoir Hell or High Water). I noticed him upon arriving at Toronto's renowned Royal York Hotel as he mingled with guests. 

At that moment I knew I must meet him. While dinner and speeches ensued, it was in the back of my mind that I would make my way to his table to say hello. 

That amid the flurry of mingling and events onstage - including a live auction and fashion show as well as a video tribute by Rick Mercer and wonderful MC duties performed by CBC's Diana Swain. It was all very exciting - especially to see so many celebrities as well as my TPL colleagues all dressed up for the black tie affair. (And yes I found myself in a 'gown' for the Ball which was a surprise - to me most of all! Sorry though no pics to be found... :)

Suddenly, Mr. Martin was approaching me. Even if I'd wanted to, I couldn't have avoided meeting him. What an opportunity! 

I realized he was saying his goodbyes and so I waited patiently for him to arrive at my spot. At which time I said hello and shook his hand. Then I said that I just wanted to thank him for all he's done for Canada. He said thanks very much and that I was "very kind." To which I added "I also want to thank you for coming tonight as we at the library really appreciate it." He smiled and held onto my hand a few seconds longer and then we said goodnight. 

It happened very quickly and then it was over. And yet it was such a meaningful encounter for me. I believe he's a man of integrity and grace and we would have been in a much better place if he was our PM now. At any rate, I also believe events happen for a reason and he has gone on to do some important work both in Canada and internationally. 

Funny enough I just saw an interview with him on TVO's The Agenda this evening which reminded me to tell you about this meeting. 

Oh yes and I also bumped into (literally) Stuart Mclean as I arrived, and had a quick and friendly exchange with Giller recipient Joseph Boyden - both which were almost as thrilling!

Hats off to the Toronto Public Library Foundation - especially Julie and Heather - for a wonderful and successful event. 

Photo: Toronto Public Library Foundation

When things go awry

Sometimes, despite my best efforts, things simply don't go my way. I often feel in these instances that I must be doing something wrong. Communicating without clarity. Being driven by ego or without a solid understanding of the big picture.

Other times, it seems that life is serving up some resistance to provide insight into where I am, from where I've come, and most importantly where I'm heading. To shake things up a bit and ensure I'm paying attention.

And then there are the times when a bumpy ride simply aids in reminding me of all that's to be appreciated in life.

Right now it feels as though all three may be going on at the very same time. Hmm.

A gentler tone and time

Now that both the US and Canadian elections are thankfully over - it has been a long, intense and sometimes alarming period - it feels like the time for forgiveness and collaboration has finally arrived. The people of both our countries as well as around the world need it. Our natural world needs it. And our future generations are completely dependent on it.

The election of Barack Obama has represented this and so much more to the majority of Americans as well as many, many internationally.

To see Obama's conciliatory approach as well as McCain's gracious concession speech on Tuesday, was inspiring and yet unsettling too. There is no question that there exists a tremendous rift in the US that will hopefully begin to be repaired in the next four years. More than that, however, the economic and ecological crises that we're now experiencing are on a global scale, affecting everyone. The US has the power and the responsibility to attempt to chart a new course - one that hopefully is inclusive, progressive and peace-oriented.

As much as I've reacted to what has seemed to be negative conservative posturing over the past few months, I'm feeling less comfortable with my own words now looking back. I have come to realize, or remember, that everyone truly is entitled to their views and their politics. Although we don't all agree philosophically, we live in a world where our interconnectedness becomes more and more apparent all the time. The need to accept our differences and work together seems more important now than ever before.

I'm hoping that everyone will accept the outcome of Tuesday's US election and move forward together. I'm trusting that goodwill for all will now necessarily take over - as is being seen in the international approach to the economic meltdown. And I'm praying that we can all move on from choosing warfare as a suitable choice in dealing with disputes, no matter how dire they are.

Today we heard of the release of CBC journalist Mellissa Fung who had been abducted a month ago while on assignment in Kabul. Thankfully she had not been hurt and will be returned home to her family soon. She was taken two days prior to the Canadian election and the decision was made not to announce her disappearance in order to protect her safety and to help in securing her release. It took international cooperation including direct contact between Stephen Harper and Afghan President Hamid Karzai, daily work by Afghani and Canadian government and security officials, and the agreement by journalists at the CBC, throughout Canada and around the world not to publish the story.

And now just days following the US election, Mellissa's worried family and colleagues - as well as the rest of us who were unaware - hear that she is safe. Thanks to nonpartisan, collaborative and wise action on the part of hundreds of people on the international stage. This one example gives me some hope. That said, Mellissa wouldn't have been put in this dangerous position if we weren't at war in Afghanistan. And we wouldn't be in Afghanistan if...

With all the promise that potentially rests with Obama and his government, there remain other setbacks and challenges - including the regressive repeal and/or banning of legalized same-sex marriage in California, Florida and Arizona during the same election.

With all that's going on for good and for bad, idealism is definitely not what's needed now. Pragmatic humanitarianism might be the ticket though.

Friendship...

... comes in all forms, shapes and sizes. Every instance is a blessing. And it's always amazing how the right ones come along at just the right time - whether in a long distance call, hurried e-hello, impromptu get together or shared experience.

Whether brand new or wonderfully old, they form much of the fabric of life. And it's especially heart-warming to know we can count on each other. Cause that's what friends are for - each and every one.

What a difference a month makes

Following the US political conventions and the announcement of Canada's fall election, it seemed that the conservative factions in both countries were on an unfortunate upswing. Then, well, Palin spoke, McCain spoke, Harper spoke, the economy began its collapse... Now the Obama/Biden ticket is decidely (at least for now) ahead in the polls and Harper's grabbed-at majority win has all but disappeared. And possibly with a bit more time Dion might even be able to deliver a Liberal minority win.

I truly hope that Harper's mean-spirited agenda is defeated. And that Obama wins and leads the US towards a kinder, gentler and more unifying domestic and international approach.

Some time ago, I realized how important the following principles are to me, no matter what. Honesty, integrity, fairness, compassion and what can simply be called 'niceness'. When looking for a new job in Toronto, my mission was to do meaningful work with nice people. Luckily I found exactly that at Toronto Public Library.

I've also seen many signs of others looking for the positive in life and in each other. A Toronto businessman who held a "Thanks for being Nice" party for his colleagues and suppliers. The psychologist in Colorado who studies the states, symptoms and contributors to happiness as opposed to depression. Many people who leave or eschew prosperous private positions to work in non-profit organizations. Numerous young people who haven't yet lost their desire to make a difference in the world versus striving just for monetary advancement. And of course all those who have always been advocating devoted, peaceful, compassionate committment to the good of all in many, many walks life.

Before this double-barrelled election year, I hadn't fully comprehended what a significant philosophical difference exists between today's conservative and liberal factions. To hear the aggressive, negative, untrue and personal attacks launched by the Palins, McCains and Harpers of this time is not just offputting, it's shocking. What truly puzzles me is how so many can align themselves with this type of thinking and action.

I'm also perplexed about why political parties exist with the goal of winning the right to govern when they don't believe in government. In both countries right now the governing parties espouse de-regulation, privatization, tax cuts for the wealthy, corporate favouritism, minimal environmental protection, declining health care and educational standards and infrastructure, as well as questionable social policies such as the right to own (and thus use) guns, the expansion of prisons and imprisonment, attacks on the arts and on it goes.

Jane Jacobs, in her 2004 Dark Age Ahead, described the two different types of societal influencers as 'traders,' who champion markets, and 'guardians' who look out for universal wellbeing. While she claimed that a balance of both is essential for a healthy society, she was leery of 'traders' taking over the governing role of the 'guardians'. 1

That's my feeling as well - I will sleep much better if well-meaning, compassionate, open-minded, trust-worthy guardians are in government in both the US and Canada. Just look where the traders have led us.

1. As cited by Thomas Axworthy in Restore political trust with vote for guardians of public interest, Toronto Star, Saturday, October 11