Aug

22

Jack Layton to Canadians: Hope is better than fear

Author: Paulo SenraPosted in: CANADA ARTICLES

READ: Jack Layton's final letter to Canadians.

So much about politics is callous and unattractive. It is dirty, cut throat, and sometimes, morally bankrupt.

Unfortunately, today’s political milieu promotes the idea that “politics done right” needs to consist of exposing your opponent’s weaknesses and vulnerabilities at any cost. Success is measured on how badly your adversary is bleeding. It is a game strictly about numbers. Votes. Sticking to the message. Winners and losers.

It is also a façade, where parties begin to define themselves on their abstracted intentions rather than concrete actions. And if at times, the truth is stretched, that is okay too.

But once in a while, someone or something, reminds me why it is I continue to believe in the institution of government and politics in general.

Today is one of those days. And although I never once voted NDP in my young life, I salute Mr. Layton for his courageous efforts in attempting to change politics in Canada.

Our country is a little less progressive today. It is our job now to fill that void.

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