I awoke this morning to the terrible news that NDP Leader Jack Layton lost his second battle with cancer.
The Kelowna skies felt the same way I did all day...grey, gloomy and sad. When the clouds opened up and launched rain down on the earth, a deep sadness grabbed my heart and overtook me.
However, here is the letter he wrote to Canadians, shedding light on the challenges and rifts of life. Tonight as I was looking out over the lake, the sky had turned a brilliant pink. This cast an unnatural bronze haze over the still water.
I think Jack was smiling down on Canada, his way of telling us it's all going to be okay.
RIP Jack Layton, and thank you for bringing so much light to this country.
August 20, 2011
Toronto, Ontario
Dear Friends,
Tens of thousands of Canadians have written to me in recent weeks to wish me well. I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughtful, inspiring and often beautiful notes, cards and gifts. Your spirit and love have lit up my home, my spirit, and my determination.
Unfortunately my treatment has not worked out as I hoped. So I am giving this letter to my partner Olivia to share with you in the circumstance in which I cannot continue.