What does it take for people (mayor, council, prime minister) to realize that reconciliation is not found in things (statues, money)?
It is found only within the minds, emotions and wills of those who choose to apply these within the process. The emotions, as real as they are, must be held in check, as we determine in our minds and wills to be deliberate and sincere in forgiveness and healing, and to then move forward with permanent reconciliation.
Things are never enough. The billions spent thus far and the statues down have moved us no closer.
The Sir John A. Macdonald statue, off its stand, the token plaque, not even turning over the city hall building and land — though not a bad idea — will ever be enough.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s proposed “residential schools holiday,” typical of his “things” attitude, will be another continuing act of the emotions; a never-ending reminder and a call never to forgive.
Please, let’s elect a mayor and council with minds and wills, a group not driven by emotions alone.
Al Anderson
Victoria
