"My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear

                                                     

"My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world."

Jack Layton

  

Setting an Example

August 22nd, 2011

Was an emotional year for many thousands of Canadians? Jack Layton, Leader of the Official Opposition Party in Canada, passed away.

To use the wisdom of Albert Einstein, "Setting an example is not the main means of influencing another, it is the only means."

I am not writing about politics, I am writing about a man who set an example for all of us. Mr. Layton influenced thousands of Canadians.

A True Example

He was an example of a man who truly had a passion for his work. He did not just speak about the issues; he actually worked to have issues resolved.

He took up causes that he believed in, causes that many others shied away from - causes such as the homeless, AIDS, violence against women, the environment, to name only a few.

His life was dedicated to helping others who perhaps could not help themselves. It didn't matter what your income was, what your nationality was, what your status was, if you needed help then Jack would help!

He believed in equality for all and that no one should be left behind.

He was a source of inspiration for thousands, and when he passed away on August 22nd, 2011, it shocked a nation. People of all political beliefs, of all ages were saddened.

Never in this country's history has there been such an outpouring of emotion. And, the reason for this, is due to a . . .

And, the reason for this, is due to a man who supported and worked for the people; a man who would take up the cause of those less fortunate; a man that influenced and touched the lives of thousands of Canadians and their families.

Many Others

There are also several if not hundreds or even thousands of other people who set an extremely valuable example of a righteous and honorable person.

But, often these people do not seek to be known around the country, nor do they seek fame, nor do they seek anyone's recognition.

These are the people who go about their daily lives bound to their strict personal ethics that speak to their caring, to their honesty in communication, and to their continuous commitment to treat people they meet as valued members of society.

An Inspiration

So whether you are a well-known person or you are just "you", always remember that the example you set can change someone else's life for the better.

Strive to help others, to be that change you want to see in the world. You influence more people than you may realize.

I leave you with a quote from a letter that Jack wrote to Canadians, and it is my hope that it inspires you and gives you some insight into a man that will be missed:

"My friends, love is better than anger.

Hope is better than fear.

Optimism is better than despair.

So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic.

And we'll change the world."

Jack Layton

1950 - 2011