Contemplative Monday

Last Monday a Canadian politician died after a courageous battle with cancer. His name was Jack Layton and he was 61 years old.

Jack, everyone called him that, was the leader of the official opposition in Parliament. He and his party, the New Democratic Party, had just won that title back in May. This was the first time in Canadian history that a social democratic party won so many seats in government, let alone become the official opposition!


I guess this would be much the same as the status of the present Republican Party in the US....not enough 'seats' to govern but enough to have to be listened to.


The funeral was on Saturday and it was a State Funeral telecast live on the networks here in Canada. It was very moving and heart-breaking to watch....even if you didn't support his views.


I have supported this party for 30 years and was thrilled when they had such a strong 'showing' this past election. I, along with millions of other Canadians, have been shocked and saddened by his death.


During the funeral ceremony the Assembly of  First Nations National Chief, Shawn Atleo performed an aboriginal blessing. It kind of snapped me out of sadness of it all and brought me back to 'basics' of why we are here in the first place.


It was truly a time of reflection and contemplation of a very humble and compassionate human being.