Change that puts people first

Now that the dust has settled, I can tell about last weekend. What a whirlwind of emotions.

I said hello to a party and goodbye to the congregation that has been my home for fifteen years. Both were good events for different reasons. I'll come back to the NDP convention. The last church service and parties that followed on June 26 were deeply touching. It was moving to think back over all the highs. lows, achievements and powerful relationships at Trinity United in Newmarket. A minister gets pretty close to people, depending on what is happening in their lives. There were the usual events--baptisms, weddings, funerals--of course, but also illnesses, employment changes, parenting and relationship issues, and many others that brought me to people at vulnerable times of their lives. In the midst of that was the congregation's varied worship life, and its outreach into the community and the world. A lot to let go. Tears flowed, naturally, and there were good laughs together. Church members were very generous to Rita and me as I stepped down, and I thank them for that and all their kindness and support over the years.

Along with sixty others, I said hello to the provincial NDP on June 24 and 25. Another emotional time. It was great to be with rooms full of people who share a commitment to social justice, and, as the campaign slogan goes, "Change that puts people first." Check out the platform at http://ontariondp.com/en/policy. Candidates learned about policy, and also how to be an effective candidate at the door, on the air, in a public meeting. Gradually during the weekend, we built our appreciation of the fact that we each represent the party for the next three months, wherever we are. There were official portraits taken, and a pose with the leader.

Speaking of the leader, Andrea Horwath gave a great speech on Saturday afternoon surrounded by hundreds of supporters. She pointed out what is missing from the plans and performance of the parties, to loud appreciation, and went on to give hope by outlining what an NDP government will do instead. As I keep saying, she will be a wonderful premier of the province. It was highly energizing to be with her and all our teachers, some of whom are sitting MPPs. Ontario needs the steady hand of the NDP to balance the interests of everyday Ontarians with those of big business. It's just not right that people are getting left behind.