A roller coaster of emotions

Instead of putting others in their place, put yourself in their place.

~ Amish Proverb

The Family Day weekend was special for my immediate family. We were all together for four days eating tasty homemade meals, hiking outdoors, playing games and engaging in conversation.

We counted our blessings, having remained united in our decisions on how best to navigate public health directives that did not resonate with our inner knowing.

And we shared stories about people publicly displaying their disapproval of those who have not yet been medically immunized.

Under the circumstances, we agreed that it is understandable why many believe there is only one solution - rolling up our sleeves for what is perceived to be "for the greater good".

Not everyone has the luxury of time to do the research required to make an informed decision. Many have little choice but to rely on "experts" who do not offer informed consent.

We understand that Canadians are angry. But, to heal from our wounds we have to engage in compassionate communication. Signs of hate impair a noble cause.

Freedom and justice cannot be parcelled out in pieces to suit political convenience.

I don't believe you can stand for freedom for one group of people and deny it to others.

~ Coretta Scott King

Emergency Measures Act debate

While the invocation of the Emergency Act weighed heavily on my thoughts and feelings, I was determined not to let it interfere with family activities.

When time permitted, I put on my headphones to follow the Parliamentary debate on my computer. History was being made. I can not be complacent.

I did not discriminate. I listened to views, on both sides of the debate, with an open mind. I desperately wanted to believe that the democratic process remains at work here in Canada.

Trumpeted was the noble cause of reuniting Canadians. But all parties seemed to be entrenched in their stance. It quickly became evident that proponents of the act would get the vote.

Fortunately, I was able to catch the contribution of my local member of parliament. I have taken the time to share with him my thoughts and opinions. His speech was exemplary, representing me - his constituent - well on this issue. I clapped with glee.

It was fascinating to hear the description of what was going on in the Ottawa convoy protest from the perspective of those who opposed or supported the invocation of the act.

The filters through which we see things based on experience were at play. Some felt safe and respected, while others felt fearful and threatened by the protestors.

Not having been there myself, I had to see the events through the eyes of the parliamentarians and the mainstream and alternative media reports. It was hard to know what to believe.

Should we leave the country?

We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.

~ Charles R. Swindoll

Although, for the most part, I managed to display optimism for the future, the roller coaster of emotions interfered with my sleep one night and led to one sad family conversation. We discussed the prospect of leaving the country. Why?

I had come across a video showing what appeared to be police brutality against a protestor. Initially, I was in denial that this could be happening in Canada. The police had been so respectful. What changed?

The threat to freeze bank accounts of Canadians who made even small contributions to the truckers was so hard to wrap our heads around.

Hearing compelling stories of small businesses who, with an open heart, donated to what they perceived to be a noble cause without considering possible alternative motives of fundraisers, only to have their livelihood threatened, was tough to bear. Trust was being violated.

Revoked Emergency Act

After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.

~ Nelson Mandela

The undoing of the Emergency Act Wednesday was cause for celebration. We can only speculate on the rationale for the time being.

We are incredibly fortunate to have enjoyed such peace and serenity here in Canada over the past century. Gratitude attracts abundance. Let us express our gratitude for every small win.

There is more work to be done. Transparency will help us truly build back better.

Thank you all for caring to share links and perspectives.

With an open heart and acts of kindness, this too shall pass.