2016 is about CONNECTION

For many years, my family and I have served charities and community assistance – behind the scenes. That is how we like it. Not only because we believe true giving receives no recognition or reward, but because OUR karma requires us to be humble while serving those who might have a greater need than us.

We aren’t rich. We aren’t excessive with loads of food or belongings going to waste if we don’t share.

Like my 8-year old says; “we share because we care”.

This fall a cause called #THECLOTHINGDRIVE consumed us. Its purpose to help provide a starting wardrobe for the GTA’s share of 25,000 Syrian refugees coming to Canada this winter. We came out from behind the scenes because it was necessary to gather much needed support. My motivation to throw my skills, time and presence to this cause was a deep belief it was about MUCH more than clothes. It was just the first step of many, needed to help newcomers integrate in Canada.

At this particular time – those who need a warm welcome most are these Syrian refugees. People who HAD to leave their homes, many hurt physically and emotionally. ALL having left SO much behind. I can’t for a moment imagine accurately their sense of loss – but I can do everything in my power to help them feel comfortable in the Canada I love and appreciate. I can ALSO remember that they aren’t the only ones.

There are many other displaced people around the world. There are large numbers of people living in Canada already who feel left out, unwelcome, forgotten.

My mission for 2016 is to connect.

Connect with people we can offer something positive to, and connect them with each other.

#togetherWEareSTONGER

In collaboration with two wonderful humans I worked with as part of the leadership of #THECLOTHINGDRIVE, this last week we launched #LivesReWritten. - a Facebook page with the honor of helping refugees from all over the world tell #theirstories. These real people give us an opportunity to learn from their experiences. When we open our hearts and minds to #theirstories, knowledge removes any remaining fear or bigotry, and replaces them with empathy and connection.

Yes – this next year has so much promise. 2016 is all about CONNECTION.

Visit #LiveRewrittten, ‘Like’, ‘Share’ and come along with us ……

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