With Thanks

Thanksgiving is a time when families and friends get together to share great food, celebrate the harvest, tell stories, and try to not talk about politics.

I get it. And yet here we are in Niagara-on-the-Lake, covered in pumpkin spice while online voting has opened, advance polls have started, and we have less than three weeks to go until Election Day on October 26.

In a year when I’m asking you to choose me as your next Lord Mayor to win this critical election, I just can’t stay quiet.

And I believe that we can talk about politics with family and friends when we focus these important conversations on what we care about the most. 

For example, I care about respect and listening to others, even when we don’t agree. 

I care about trust, being transparent and bringing people together.

And I care deeply about the future of our very special town.

Here are some questions to consider when you sit down with friends and family this weekend:

Who do you appreciate in your life, and why?

What personal qualities do you love in a friend, family member or mentor?

What are you afraid of losing?

How could a small change in your world make a big difference this year?

What are you feeling most grateful for?

These are questions about who we are at a way deeper level than politics.  Election season brings out strong feelings because we care so much.  And that is a very good thing. 

I have a lot to be thankful for: a wonderful wife, great kids and grandchildren and terrific friends across Niagara-on-the-Lake.  I’m thankful to have met so many more residents this year, and grateful to hear about your cares and concerns.

I share your hopes, and I share your fears about Niagara-on-the-Lake.  We are all fortunate to live in Canada’s most beautiful town, and to keep it that way, we need to change how decisions are made. 

Great families and friendships are built on trust, transparency, and working together.  No-one can cook a perfect feast alone. 

So go ahead, I dare you: talk about politics this weekend!  When election issues become a conversation about our values, what we care for and the things that we love, these personal topics can help to unite us in a very important time.

And I sure hope it doesn’t sound like politics when I wish everyone in Niagara-on-the-Lake a very Happy Thanksgiving!