Passion Power

The government is very good at sending cash to large numbers of people every single month. Perhaps they might get better at helping people integrate back into the workforce. People will try and figure out a way to increase their household income but if the government takes it back where’s the incentive for working? We’ve grappled with this dysfunctional system for decades. Where do we even begin to encourage more people to step out of these poverty traps. I see job postings everywhere. A friend of mine has a store and can’t find employees. A family member on Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) won’t work because they will deduct from his cheque. People on benefits should be motivated to work. If you are collecting benefits and would like to get yourself a part time job for some extra spending money or to save up for a larger item this initiative should be celebrated but instead the system discourages it by deducting 50% off the amount earned after the first $200. It’s a...

I cherish the memories at the cottage on the Magnetawan River every summer for two or three weeks. The smell of the rain-soaked leaves and the soft blanket of pine underneath my shoes reminds me of the carefree nature I once had as a kid. I feel more like myself at the cottage. A fox sprints on by down the road like he owns it. The front porch is my favourite place to relax. The fountain splashes across the street and the birds sing their happy songs. I don’t care about the shoes at the door or the lists or the laundry. I’d rather pick wild flowers or walk on the beach. The beach is a great way to boost your immune system. The beach is a place where squandering time is accepted, and naps are encouraged by the sound of waves and a gentle breeze. When the lake is glass-like it brings so much peace to your life. A sunset swim is magical. Boredom at the cottage as a kid was an excuse to float on our backs in the river or take the canoe down to get lily pads. Tapped into nature a...