From the Editor's Computer
I don’t normally get involved in political
discussions, but this whole “Belinda Stronach” deluge in the media the last
month has been a little hard to ignore.
Contrary to what many media
personalities have said in the past, I, personally, do not find Belinda to be a
wonderful role model as a politician or businesswoman for Canadians - women and
young women in particular. Granted, you
cannot believe everything you read or hear in the news, however, it is
precisely what we are hearing and reading that shapes what type of person we
perceive Belinda, and other public
figures, to be and what kind of role model she is perceived as.
If we want to be effective role
models for others, and especially for the youth in our communities, we need to
learn a few things.
Firstly, we all need to learn that
‘demanded’ apologies are a waste of time.
Either you wait forever for what you consider is “your due,” never
receiving it, or you do get the apology and it is as fake and insincere as can
be as it has been forced from the person.
Second, we all need reminded that
you sow what you reap...what you give out will be what is returned to
you...life always mirrors back to you what you are showing life. If you feel that you are being treated
poorly, how are you treating others?
Thirdly, we all need to learn that
being a ‘victim’ is a personal choice.
Now it is possible that someone could rob you or beat you. Thus, you are a victim of a robbery or a
beating. However, once the event happens
and is done it is your choice whether you move on or wallow in the hurt and
misery of a victim mentality. You cannot
turn back the clock and undo actions, words or thoughts so you might as well
get past it and learn from the experience.
Let it go!
Fourthly, we all need reminded
that no one is exempt from the consequences of their actions. When the consequences seem delayed we have
tendency to get complacent and think we got off Scott free. The truth is there are consequences to
everything you do, whether for good or not.
We must remember to consider the consequences before every decision we
make.
Whether we realize it or not, we
are all role models to those who interact with us every day. Are you a good role model?
Beth
To contact The Chautauqua, email: thechautauqua@gmail.com.
