Editor:
With the recent passing of our Federal NDP leader, Jack Layton, I’ve become aware that people might be prone to feeling angst at the thought of going forward without him.
While he is no longer here in body, he certainly is alive in spirit.
It’s recognizable if we look back from where we once sat, to where we stand today in parliament. We can say with pride that we are the “Official Opposition.” With Jack’s exuberance, the Orange Crush was born. His energy was incredible.
His caring and concern for others was apparent. Jack threw the ball of possibility up into the air and the best way to honour his memory is to make sure that we never drop that ball.
Many of us know that politics isn’t often a friendly arena.
When Jack ran this last federal campaign, he took the high road even when others weren’t as kind, so let’s take his lead and strive to be a little kinder to one another.
Instead of shaking our fists at those who oppose our views, open your hand, extend it and just agree to disagree.
Jack always talked about change. Doing something is better than doing nothing.
For some, your level of involvement might vary from what others feel comfortable doing.
Donations are always needed and welcomed but we must recognize that volunteering our time is just as important.
I feel fortunate to have volunteered on the 2011 Federal NDP campaign here in our B.C. Southern Interior riding, which ultimately helped our MP Alex Atamanenko be re-elected.
Our volunteer base was responsible for the successful outcome. Change can happen but it’s more apt to come about if you become involved.
Jack Layton will no doubt go down in history as being the best prime minister we never had. I believe his final words will continue to resonate amongst all Canadians for years to come:
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.
Marcella Kastrukoff, Grand Forks