The rights of every [person] are diminished when the rights of one [person] are threatened.
~ John F. Kennedy
The greatest threats to our health and wellbeing right now are divisiveness and loneliness.
Oppressive restrictions and mandates that no longer make sense, have caused unprecedented harm, not only to our elders but especially to our children. Those who, for one reason or another, could not consent to the jab, have been shamed, ridiculed, bullied and excluded from participating in society long enough.
Every Ontario citizen should watch Let Kids Be Kids | Dr. Martha Fulford to get an evidence-based perspective on how our children have fared relative to others.
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
~ Margaret Mead
The Freedom Convoy has revealed that it is not a fringe minority that opposes mandates. Canadians throughout the country have united in droves to support the truckers who have offered a powerful message of hope.
Although mainstream media revels in diminishing the numbers and disproportionately features divisive behaviours and extreme remarks by those who have shown up in Ottawa, alternative news sites have shared the magnitude of the effort and the countless acts of generosity and kindness.
Children have offered homemade cookies with notes expressing sincere gratitude making grown men cry. Tens of thousands have donated generously to the cause. Food, drink and fuel have been supplied on-site.
Vilifying those who have courageously travelled from afar to advocate for change is not good leadership. Refusing to listen to their stories and concerns is cowardly behaviour that engenders righteous anger and perseverance.
How can we do better?
How we treat people with whom we disagree says a lot about who we are. Classifying and judging people promotes aggression. A leader leads by example. Bullying and name-calling are signs of insecurity and weakness.
A peaceful effort to create change does not ridicule even when unjustly vilified.
Expressing our vulnerability is the first step in the process to resolve conflict. Let us not be complacent. Let us become good stewards of our homeland, acting to remove barriers and provide access to opportunity for one and all.
Share your stories with local leaders. I am aware that to date, such stories have been largely ignored and not featured by mainstream media, but this too is slowly changing.
Words matter. We must choose them wisely. Say "NO" to oppression respectfully. We are not a fringe minority. You are not alone!
Beautiful post. I am at the convoy and I saw children supporting the truckers and it really does bring tears to their eyes!! We must continue to say no.