Longing

Look just under the surface of almost every conversation we are having these days is the theme of longing. Have you noticed it? We are longing for normalecy, for answers, and for timelines telling us when this will all be over.

Dig down another layer and we discover a deep longing for connection. Carefree coffees with friends. Loved ones squished shoulder to shoulder around the kitchen table. The chance to play checkers with grandpa again.

Deeper yet is the growing awareness that Hamlet was right. Something is rotten in the state of Denmark. Collectively we are waking up to the fact that it is long past time for equity to prevail, and the sneaking suspicion that unless we act it might not. This is a time for courage, for the bravery to do the right thing.

Shop wisely this season. Use your marketing dollars to support the people who both need and deserve them.

Talk wisely this season. Use your voice to change what needs changing.

Choose wisely this season. We can hunker down while still being a good neighbor.

Invest wisely this season. Around the world, women and girls are disproportionately affected by Covid 19. Invest in women and girls, giving gifts and supporting organizations that empower them, and advocating for 30% women at all decision making tables (www.bravewomen.ca) so together we can achieve what we all long for, a more just and equitable world.