Peter – 4 Years On

Well, DBAWIS is back after our summer hiatus, and already my colleagues on the blog are setting the bar high, but I will do my best to measure up. I encourage you all to read their columns, I certainly do. In fact, I share them to my timeline. 

During our time off, I marked 4 years as a writer with this blog. That’s a lot of columns, and it has been, and will continue to be, most enjoyable. Over the next while, Loyal Reader, I will be treating you to my thoughts on many different subjects in many different columns.

As an example, I will be showcasing the writing of several people of my acquaintance. Frankly I admire their “way with words” and I am happy to have the opportunity to be able to “shine a light” on their efforts.

I will also be writing about some personal Christmas memories at my ancestral home in Orillia. After all, 25 plus people, 5 feet of blowing snow, sub zero temperatures, tables groaning with food and drink and ONE washroom…… what could possibly go wrong  😉 .

Pass the Potatoes …the Yams …the Gravy …hell, just pass Everything

This week, however, I am addressing two separate issues.

Canada is having a federal election on September 20th. I am urging each and every one of you who is eligible to vote to do so, and to participate in the process as much as possible. We are lucky that we can have a say in deciding who will govern us, but if we don’t exercise our hard earned right to vote, then we will have absolutely no say in the outcome and will wind up with a situation such as currently exists in Ontario. In the last provincial election, 40 percent of eligible voters stayed home and watched television. The national figures were better, only 34% ” shirked” their duty in 2019. I implore you all to get out and vote.

If you aren’t sure of your electoral status, you can look it up on line. “Google is not necessarily your friend” in this case, as typing “Where do I vote in Canada” may take you to Elections Canada, but may direct you to a political party’s site.

Far better use “Elections Canada” as your search term. Not sure which riding you are in? Type in your postal code. You get your riding and a list of the various local candidates, some with hot links. You can also ensure that you are on the voters list, and how to correct any errors in your listing. You can learn where and how to vote, if you are unable to make it to the polls on election day. 

You can vote through the mail, but note that September 14th is the deadline for exploring that option. Voting by mail is a secure voting option, despite what some  might say.

In short, Loyal Reader, voting is an important part of being a citizen. Go to the Elections Canada site for useful, nonpartisan information which truly will answer all your questions. 

Finally for this week, September 10th marks the second anniversary of the worst day of my life. 

My dear Lois passed away, beaten by cancer after a valiant and prolonged battle. I was there when she passed, as I had been during the whole ordeal. Her courage and grace moved me in ways that I hold dear. She was a beautiful soul, with a host of family and friends who loved her. 

She made me want to be a better person, and I will always hold her in my heart. It truly was an honour to be in her Life. Sleep peacefully, Dear Lady. 

I do know that she would be happy that I have found Love again. It’s funny, but Betty likes some of the same things that Lois liked, such as Betty Boop, Lay’s Potato Chips and Diet Pepsi. It’s almost like a sign.

Anyway, Loyal Reader, as I always say, “Keep those who are dear to you near to you.”

See you soon.