There was an almost-great letter to the editor of the Peace Arch News last week. It was great until the last line.
It was a fabulous statement on community spirit… then included praise for the election results. But absolutely nothing he spoke of was an issue of debate during the election. If anything, it was a clear point of consensus. I have no doubt that each and every candidate would emphatically and enthusiastically agree with the vision he described.
Some candidates volunteer and contribute more to the community than others, but there was no evidentiary pattern in the election results.
The irony of his letter is that, by diminishing other people’s perspectives, he actually undermined his own vision of a community of positive, engaged citizens.
From the November 26 edition of the Peace Arch News:
What is the attraction and beauty of White Rock?
With humility, may I respond:
The endless troops of volunteers welcoming, helping and listening to those in need; newcomers relishing to raise a family in a White Rock environment; city workers nurturing beautiful outdoor flora.
Renowned musicians who choose to live and perform here; numerous curlers and lawn bowlers promoting relationships; First Nation people welcoming dog owners to enjoy their parkland.
Friendly, accommodating store clerks blessed with patience; the talented youngsters walking safely to and from school; polite, dedicated emergency personnel; theatrical thespians winning Canada-wide recognition.
Green-thumbed gardeners proud to display door-to-door beauty through nature; youth bonding with kin, via sports; travelling citizens who return with open arms to their special place, White Rock.
The civic election’s poll results were above and beyond. Hallelujah!
A special thank you to all who clearly understood.
Tom Russell, White Rock