Things To Be Thankful For

Written by Denise Deby.

Here are a few things I’m thankful for these days:

Advocacy: I’m grateful to all the wonderful people around who are speaking up about what needs to be changed, finding creative solutions, organizing opportunities for others to make a difference, and inspiring the rest of us to think, live and act more mindfully.

Art: Ottawa has many impressive people who through their art, music, films, stories and other creative pursuits are not just spreading the work about environmental and social issues, but helping us see that different ways of thinking and acting are possible. (Don’t miss the Walking With Our Sisters memorial, a powerful tribute to missing and murdered Indigenous women, at Carleton University’s Art Gallery until Oct. 16, 2015.)

Being a part of nature: Getting outdoors is calming, rejuvenating and a reminder of our connection with other things. Right now the air is crisp, the colours magnificent and local forests, parks and recreational paths plentiful. (Gatineau Park and Greenbelt trails can be crowded this time of year, but they’re splendid, as is the South March Highlands. Going for a bike ride, or a walk through a park or neighbourhood, are other things that make me happy.)

Biodiversity: Although we’re losing ground on biodiversity, it’s what keeps us resilient. Fortunately, there are organizations and individuals helping us rebuild biodiversity in our food system, and protect species and habitats. (Try USC Canada’s 10-minute game to get family or friends talking about biodiversity and why it matters, or read up about it.)

Food: This is of course the time of year to celebrate the harvest. (A visit to a farmers’ market or pumpkin patch is a great autumn activity.)

Water: I’m thankful for water and its life-giving properties. I’m worried about threats to it, and grateful to groups working to protect water sources locally and farther afield. (Check out these suggestions of water issues to raise with your federal candidates.)

Other things I’m thankful for: family, friends and community; health; time (including time to be thankful!); and oh, so much more.

You’re welcome to share some of the things you’re thankful for, in the comments—I’ll be grateful. : )