I’m trying to think of a transportation issue to discuss but the only thing that comes to my mind is the funeral cortege I was part of earlier this week.

There’s nothing like a funeral to remind us of our priorities. The friend I lost was the kindest, most thoughtful person I know. His passing has made me pledge to only allow positive and caring people into my life. Perhaps this is a resolution we can all make. When we come across people who are negative, critical, unfair, and uncaring, we can gently extricate them out of our lives so that we are only surrounded by people whose example and influence will enrich and improve our daily existence.

Hopefully, those people who we have rejected will realize what their failings are and try to become more positive. We can pledge to make our contact with people to be caring and thoughtful, to have a kind word for everyone we meet. As a legacy to my friend I will look for the best in people and give genuine compliments to the people who cross my path in order to foster a positive self image in them.

When we are happy with ourselves we tend to behave in better ways and rise up to be our best selves. Obviously, no one is all good or all bad but let’s use our negative emotions to fight injustice and wrong doing. Lots of times people behave badly because they feel bad about themselves to begin with. What if we were kinder to people and encouraged them to grow the best parts of themselves? Imagine if everyone in Boyle Street felt good about themselves.

During our Alberta Culture Days last month I met many energetic and inspiring people and I was reminded about what a vibrant and interesting community we have here. I also met someone who was struggling with addiction and my heart and prayers go out to anyone who is in so much pain that they have lost themselves in drugs and alcohol. Those people need our kindness and understanding even more. This community offers us continuing opportunities to experience our humanity and I feel so blessed to live in this neighbourhood.

Manon is a resident of Boyle Street, a former member of the BSCL Board, and an active volunteer in the community.