Beating the monster
HodgePodge by Charlie Hodge
As a young teenager I set about the world of North America hitchhiking with an almost addictive severity seeking to quelch my thirsty travelling toes. I did not have the funds for worldwide wandering.
Regardless, I sought learning and knowledge that only observations at a root, one-on-one level can provide. I was curious about what made the world tick and went off to find out. Suffice to say (like you) I observed and absorbed what lessons came my way or that I at least made a point of comprehending. People are what they are.
Certainly, we are not all the same, what we hoped for, or perhaps planned on.
I remember that many of my young adventures into certain parts of the United States were profoundly disturbing when compared to my Canadian values. I was exposed to racism and sexual prejudice at an enhanced level down south compared to home. With opened eyes I realized what change was needed and set forth to help do so.
Over the years, while I had learned and grown, I foolishly figured North America had learned, grown, evolved …
Following the results of the U.S. election last week I realize I was naively wrong and admit to being tragically shocked. Numb or stupefied are good terms for the overwhelming sense of sorrow I feel in trying to comprehend what has happened – and what will now come to fruition as the reality of this election unfolds.
I suppose we should not be surprised but I am. I did not think the American voter could be so blind or misguided – to return Trump back to power.
I’ve taken part or listened to a number of debates and conversations about the scenario, mainly the shock of what most people in Canada and many American media outlets predicted was going to be a Harris Democrat victory. The majority firmly expected that for the first time a coloured woman would be President of the United States.
Tragically that was too big a step ‘forward’ for many U.S. voters, who have a problem with coloured or woman in power. They rallied for Donald. Some suggest too many Harris supporters never got out to vote convinced the win was in the bag.
It’s the future that scares me now.
Trump is a very angry man with a tremendous amount of power and no one to stop him. I am terrified with what his naughty and nice list will look like over the next two months. We have a world to be afraid for.
The worst is yet to come.
***
Speaking of life altering events here’s something happening Wednesday you may have some personal interest in, or that may help impact lives around you.
A book launch and seminar Healing and Hope is set for November 13 at the Mary Irwin Theatre in Kelowna at 7 p.m. This event aims to offer guidance, hope and valuable insights for individuals and their families struggling with addiction.
Several of the 16 authors in the compilation book Healing Mind, Body, Soul Recovering from the Trauma of Addiction, will be on hand with stories from both family members and survivors of addictions.
The seminar will feature speakers including author Pam Rader, author Luke Wiltshire along with keynote speaker Guy Felicella (https://guyfelicella.com/) for an inspiring evening focused on recovery, healing, and personal transformation.
Several knowledgeable organizations will have information tables set up around the seminar including Ask Wellness Society, Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society, Hemi House, She Recovers, Freedoms Door, Metro Community Centre, Healing Hearts Canada, Vernon Treatment Centre, and more… Tickets are sold through the Rotary Centre for the Arts: https://rotarycentreforthearts.com/events/event/190402/
Author Teena Clipston organized the evening promising it will be informative. Teena saved her own son from fentanyl through a long and harsh withdrawal battle.
“Today he is doing well. I am very proud of his strength and courage. The challenging time spent with him while he was in withdrawal and using can best be described as traumatizing. There is very little help out there for anyone trying to get their adult kids off these deadly drugs. This project was born out of that, a desire to help others going through the same thing, to let them know they are not alone and there is healing and hope.
“In speaking with another mother who was going through similar problems with her son, Pam Rader, we decided to do a compilation book,” Teena explained.
The evening will also include a question-and-answer session with several authors from the book, who will share their personal recovery journeys.
Doors open at 6 pm for a book signing and viewing the info tables.
