Abandoned Places
The inexorable effects of aging confront me more each month. I find now that I reach for my reading glasses more and more. Whereas until recently I would frequently ask…
On Gratitude
When I retired from my position as executive director of IJM Canada at the end of 2018, I found it difficult at first to establish a new rhythm for my…
Leadership 101
I am often asked by aspiring not-for-profit leaders what advice I might have for them as they plot their own career trajectory. The answer I typically offer might not be…
When Dreams Die
When I was in California last month, I drove north from Palm Springs one day to explore a section of historic Route 66 and to visit the Mojave National Preserve.…
A Good Distance
I was able to spend last week in the Palm Springs area of California on account of the kindness of some good friends. It was my third visit to Palm…
Walking Away
Last week, I walked away from the London head office of International Justice Mission Canada as the former executive director of the organization. My 121⁄2-year relationship with the organization ended…
Bridges Are Costly
The rehabilitated Blackfriars Bridge was officially reopened on Saturday, December 1. Judy and I had been watching the 13-month project closely, because the Thames Valley Parkway, which we train on…
Walking the Property
There’s a bush lot on Manitoulin Island still registered in my father’s name, even though he passed away over three years ago. My siblings and I, heirs to his estate,…
On Resilience
After visiting my native terrain on Manitoulin Island last week, I’m ready to declare that the tamarack is my favorite tree. I’ve always been fond of this species (larix laricina,…
On Memory
Our house is full of family and personal artifacts. The bed in our guest room is covered with a quilt sewn by my mother. Framed wedding photos of my parents…