Originally published as a column on CFJC Today Kamloops and Armchair Mayor News, on August 3, 2020.
Here’s what caught my eye last week while perusing the news. One story was about a salmonella outbreak linked to red onions originating from California, which you can read more about here and dispose of any tainted produce you might have in your kitchen pantry.
The other news story was about a senior in New Westminster, whose balcony is a little green oasis – not just a visual one, but culinary as well since he is growing vegetables. The property rental company sent a letter to this senior asking him to remove the tall plants. The reason they cited: to conform with the uniform look of the building, and to maintain health, cleanliness, and sanitary standards.
Many years ago, I found this piece of driftwood – a plank just wide enough and long enough to write a short something on, and that something was one of my favourite quotes by Dalai Lama and a principle I try to live by, ‘Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.’ We have moved that piece of driftwood from one home to another and during many kids’ squabble I pointed to it as a reminder that kindness can be done, anytime, anywhere. A reminder for all, young and old, that is.