Jack Layton

Like most people, I have been affected by the recent death of Jack Layton, the federal leader of the NDP party. I didn't follow the details of his career that closely however as I read more about him, I am very impressed by his life and the humanity he demonstrated throughout. He lived a principled life and sought to make a better world for all, one that provides equal opportunity for all people. It is easy to lose ourselves in our own daily problems and immerse ourselves in our lives. Jack Layton cared deeply about others and the future of Canada and the world. Even on his deathbed he was thinking about others and how the battle for social justice would be continued. He left us with a simple but powerful message.

"My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world." - Jack Layton

It is a great message for all of us.