The news of Jack Layton's passing has hit me hard today.
In the past few months, my family and I have watched the news and marvelled at Jack's strength and felt incredibly solemn as we watched him battle cancer. We often remarked that even Jack's appearance was so uncannily similar to that of my father-in-law, another hero with a kick ass moustache who fought like hell, but succumbed to cancer 5 years ago.
Jack changed who I am. He taught me that there is a place for ‘heart’ in politics; he taught me that there is more than just left or right, and above all that a smile can calm a room and provide a sense of comfort. He raised a generation of caring Canadian youth that will become our future leaders. He left a mark on our country that I never expected.
My father-in-law changed who I am. He taught me how to enjoy a glass of wine; he taught me patience and social responsibility. He taught me how to level a sidewalk, how to call CAA, and above all how everyone deserves your love and a second chance. He raised three of the most down to earth boys you’ll ever meet, teaching them respect, kindness and love. He left a mark on my heart that I never expected and to this day I tear up at the thought of him.
Today on the day of Jacks passing, I mourn not only his loss but also the loss of my father in law, as thousands of Canadians are also reminded of their loved ones and mourn for those taken so unfairly by cancer.
In Jacks last letter to Canadians he said : “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.” They are words that I hope everyone battling something – be it poverty, racism, bullying, personal demons, or cancer - can cling to. They are words that I hope resonate with every Canadian. And while I fight the urge to get angry that yet another father, uncle, partner, leader, human is taken from us too early, I will remember what Jack said and turn that anger into love and optimism.
Hold your family and friends tight. Cherish the moments you have with them, and look into the eyes of your children and know that they will be the generation that slays the cancer beast. I can only imagine that is what Jack, and my father in law, would want.
Rest in peace Jack, and give Dad a hug for me.
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