Chaplain’s Corner
1 October 2015
The Rev. Art Turnbull, Branch 15 Chaplain
Summer seems to have rapidly faded into the fullness of Autumn. That means my Summer generic column is out of date. Sometimes I am probably out of date as well, but that is the way of those of us who are now older than our fathers. Time keeps moving on and each day brings new challenges and joys.
October is an election month for the citizens of Canada. It is obvious that the candidates of all stripes are out and about doing the talking and promotion necessary to catch the attention of all Canadians. Many different interest groups are also making it into our vision as each tells why they should have their special concern placed before all others. I expect the first weeks of this month will see an increasing amount of verbiage coming our way.
The Royal Canadian Legion is non-partisan, neutral to party politics and specifically directs that Legion agendas are not to provide forums for political lobbying. At the same time, Legion members are aware of the significance of the sacrifice made in past times and the present need to stand firm in the defence of democracy as established in our Canadian society. Of all citizens, Legion members should be the ones who make every effort to vote on election day. From my Christian view point this is proper and expected of all good people as citizenship participation is the cornerstone of belonging to society. Responsible exercising of the rights fought for is a privilege we all need to respect.
This is also the month that Legion Branches begin the process of identifying those leaders needed for the governance of the life and work of the Legion. Identifying those in our midst who have the particular talents and gifts of leadership to direct and manage the many facets of life in any branch takes the collective wisdom of all members. In our Abbotsford community we are blessed with many willing and capable people who would gladly fill a position if they felt they were truly supported. Many branches, including ours, are falling down on giving elected leadership the support that is necessary. The few are left to do the decision making and the executing of those decisions. In so doing they run the risk of criticism and resistance from others who, having been apathetic about nominating the leaders and offering their help, are now self-equipped to know better than others. It is time to put away this type of behaviour. We all need to do our individual part to make the collective mission of the branch truly serve the constituency of Abbotsford. We owe that to generations past and present of veterans who are our examples and responsibility. This year get behind those who stand for leadership. This year speak your idea clearly. This year be involved.
The situation of the world conditions impacts our local life. Wars in far off countries, refugees flocking to safe havens that are elusive, storms and disasters all about, do make it imperative that we who live in relative peace and good circumstances give thanks for the blessings of life. None of us have to live on $1.90 a day. Rather, our $1.90 a day can bring life and safety to others in this world. On Thanksgiving Weekend do take time to reflect on the gratefulness that is your lot in life.
“In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew chapter 7, verse 12 NSRV Bible)