Walk it back a bit people

This goes for all people in all counties.  Watching the TV, listening to the radio and reading (paper and online) is troubling.  Too many politicians, media and people in general have been using language that is extremely troubling.  The labels they apply to others they disagree with, the words all degrade people, delegitimize them as a people or what they believe in.

It is OK to disagree, but, point out where you don't agree and why and not use words that incite hatred and intolerance. Politicians should know the power of words as that is what they use to get into power and stay there.  They should use the language of inclusion and tolerance. 

Words like

• Classy
• Crooked {insert name here}
• Fake news (one of the ones I dislike a lot)
• Horrible person
• Loser 
• Pathetic
• Political correctness (another one where they use it to justify their hated)
• She/he is a great person.  Every time I hear that now it seems to be just before a certain person south of the border then goes nuclear on them.
• Stupid
• Swamp.  A swamp is a good place where nature does its magic.  What they should be using is cess pit.
• Weak

It isn't an all inclusive list, but, words/phrases above should not be a part of any speach given by a politician or business leader.

Break time for a caregiver

Last week I had my first vacation in over four years (after 1,496 days).  Most of my personal time off that is allowed and my vacation time have been spent looking after my wife.  Days she is sick and I am at home caring for her and the many medical appointments eat up the time I am allowed and each year I don't have any time (at best two days in my time bank) left over to take at least a one week vacation.  While she is able to do a number of things on her own it has been a bit stressful and not having time off to recharge has left me all too often feeling tired.

This year has been different.  Even with her having cataract surgery (11 appointments in total for both eyes) I have enough time accumulated that I could take a one week vacation.  We didn't do much other than my slowing down and relaxing.  Where I work knew how long it was since I had a vacation and they made it a point to ensure that I was not to be contacted while I was off.  Several days it was 'retail therapy' by going to malls she hasn't gone to for years.  One day there was really nice weather and I told her it was just for me.  I spent the day outside walking along the Ottawa and Rideau rivers with my camera and for four hours totally relaxed.  I don't know if it is a big deal for most people, but, for me it was a wonderful break.  For part of the day I could relax, enjoy the views and have a day to myself.

Before her stroke I tended to take vacation either in October or December.  I like October as the weather usually is still nice and fewer tourists out where I like to walk and take photos.  Christmas I used the time off to bake and finish off the buying/wrapping of presents.  For both it is a slower life and a time to forget about work and enjoy life.  I am looking forward to next year and see if there will be enough time for a two week vacation.