The bigger picture
Even though Father’s Day is just around the corner, it was a horrific event last weekend that had us thinking earnestly about family and community.
A Canadian Press story spelled out the details that two vehicles had collided, resulting in the tragic loss of five children. Subsequent coverage here and elsewhere outlined a mishap that will forever impact the families immediately involved and countless others called to the scene.
Community members have responded generously to a Go Fund Me campaign established to assist the Doerksen family. Along with financial contributions we expect people of faith will keep the family in their prayers as they transition from what was to what will be.
The grief and sorrow that accompanies such a loss spills over into the community at large. Neighbours, school mates, friends and family – the interconnectedness of people is inescapable. Hopefully the family gains strength and is fortified by these common bonds.
With this precept, we hope this weekend provides time to enjoy people who are important in your life. This tragedy is a reminder that we never know when big changes in our lives will take place. It can happen in an instant and should prompt renewed thinking on what we truly value.
Thanks are owed to the emergency service responders who were called into action this past weekend. Mapleton Mayor Gregg Davidson did an admirable job of articulating that in countless interviews, as well as giving voice to the sorrow gripping this community.
It is times like these where training and character provide calm under unimaginable stress. We encourage prayers and thankful thoughts for our local volunteer firefighters, paramedics, OPP and emergency room personnel. Trauma affects everyone in different ways despite the professionalism they exhibit publicly.
Let’s take stock this weekend and see the bigger picture.
Skimpy on the flyers
Certain portions of our coverage area will notice fewer flyers this week. Postmedia announced a few weeks back it was suspending flyer delivery in all of its community newspapers. Without a network of dependable sources for delivery, Transcon Media have introduced a new product called Raddar.
That shopper format for big retailers should show up in mailboxes this week. More to follow...