July is the time of year for celebrating our communities. Whether it’s Canada day, or a local community event, there are numerous opportunities highlighted in this issue that encourage us to gather together. As I’ve mentioned in previous articles, it’s a way in which we can take time to celebrate and cherish what we have. It’s easy to lose touch with our friends and neighbours so these events help create a space to bring us together again.
On a personal note, we have some new life at our home. Two baby fawns were born in close proximity to where we live. Although I find the deer a bit of a nuisance, I was in awe as I observed these little creatures prance through my yard. After enjoying my many varieties of plants that deer supposedly don’t eat, they came and suckled their mother. It was quite the sight and reminded me of when we first moved to Redwood in 2005 and all our kids were so excited to see a deer. We often take for granted the environment we’re in and it becomes familiar. Over the last few years, I’ve endeavoured to challenge myself to notice something new or unique when out on my walks. This has taught me to see and appreciate not only my environment but the people around me as well.
Unfortunately, it’s easy to become familiar with our communities, often losing sight of the uniqueness and people that make it special. Sometimes we need to see it through a new set of lenses, similar to how I saw the two fawns in my yard. As we live and work in our communities, let’s be sure to create safe spaces where others can feel like they can settle, creating new beginnings in the spaces we’ve come to appreciate and call home.
From my family to yours,
Lowell Harder
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