Communication is not easy, especially when there is something difficult to say. Even if we are excellent communicators, we can all use a reminder now and again about how to have tough conversations with our bosses, co-workers, lovers, friends, and children. I selfishly want to share these tips for difficult conversations because they work equally well if you don’t agree …
2020 not such a bummer of a year after all
Dear 2020, You’ve been getting a lot of flak, but I want to say that I see method in your madness, and I am choosing to focus on the positives you’ve brought us. Firstly, I’d like to thank you for an even closer bond with my teens. I didn’t think it was possible, but our quarantine time strengthened us as …
Liars should get their just deserts
I hate being lied to. I rarely use the word hate, but I do feel that strongly about honesty or the lack thereof. If my history is any indication though, I have to caveat that statement because there were times in the past that I wanted to believe a lie, because it was easier and meant I wouldn’t have to …
Is another symbol in danger of being sullied?
Is the thin blue line symbol headed for the same fate of the swastika? Can we stop its current trajectory, or is it already too late? In 1999, I travelled to Asia, on a journey of world- and self-discovery. While in Vietnam, there were many swastikas and reverse swastikas on gravesites and above door frames. The vision was jarring. Even …
Show respect and keep Christmas frills shelved until Remembrance Day wraps
As soon as Halloween and fall decorations come down, they appear to be replaced overnight with Christmas ones, but not in my house. I think it is only respectful to wait until after Remembrance Day to even consider putting up the Christmas tree. My grandfather, John William Setchell, who was in bomb disposal in the Second World War, deserves that. …
Words do matter — and some lines should not be crossed
What is considered funny or clever advertising? What is thoughtless and offensive? There have always been lines we don’t cross, not in comedy, not in marketing, not on social media, not in conversation. Last week these very questions were sparked locally in relation to Black Lives Matter. Centre Ice Bar and Grill got their metaphorical hands slapped for an outdoor …
Winds of change blow hard this September
I am shocked that school is starting again in September. I am even more surprised that they have chosen to start classes earlier in the morning for my teens. Anyone with a teen knows that earlier in the morning does not work well for them. I’m currently grappling with what’s right for my family given the pandemic and I’m questioning …
‘Criminal shame’ to let culture of silence continue
In June, you may have found yourself reading about the CHL, OHL, WHL, QMJHL class action lawsuit over allegations of abusive hazing. You may have been instantly relieved that your son/grandson never had to experience the physical, sexual, and emotional abuse that is outlined in the class actions claims. A comforting thought, indeed, though perhaps not entirely realistic. Or maybe …
Let’s be more prudent when pinning on hero medals
As our elementary and secondary schools are approaching the end of the school year, I appreciate that those who are graduating Grade 8 or high school are missing some rites of passage, but I think we need to be careful about the language we accord to their circumstances. Words matter. When I read the director of education’s May 26 message …
Usury appears to be alive and well
I got a piece of direct mail last week for a service that purports itself to provide “affordable loan solutions.” It said I could apply easily at the branch, online, or by telephone. I could get $5,500 loan – today. I read the conditions on the back, and nowhere did it mention the interest rate for this “affordable” solution that …