It wasn't until a long walk on the beach with an old friend that prompted this entry. We spoke about the city of Toronto and what it was we love about it, and what it is we think needs improvement. We also spoke in length about our mayor, David Miller. More specifically we spoke about his handling of mid August's propane blast that devastated so many families-taking away their livelihoods, and in one instant the life of one of Toronto's brave firefighters.
Loss of life-is always difficult to deal with, but when it falls upon a man or woman who's job involves the protection of the citizens of the community, it becomes that much more difficult to deal with. When someone sacrifices their life for another, it is truly inspiring. These brave men and women have families of their own, yet on a daily basis risk never seeing them again, because they believe in humanity, they believe in making a difference, they believe in community, and they believe their life can be sacrificed knowing it can provide safety to those other members of society who have families and loved ones to care for.
So it comes at a great disappointment and a feeling of true disgust, that our city's leader, our captain, our voice of reason and compassion decides to skip out on the funeral of one of Toronto's heroes and guardians. That he did so to celebrate his daughter's 13th birthday in Vancouver only infuriates me more.
Some say that it is true that is best to put our families before our jobs. Of course this makes sense. However, when in a position where you're responsibility is to a larger calling there can be no compromise. Taking care of the citizens of your city is in fact putting your family first. The principle of this is triumphant. I ask you, do the police officers, paramedics, soldiers, firefighters-do they pick and choose which battles to fight? Do they decide whose lives are worth saving and not saving? NO. They do their jobs with diligence and pride. They do this because they choose to work for something larger then their own lives. In doing so, we owe it to them and to ourselves, and our families to show them how much we appreciate the sacrifices they make.
We did lose one of our city's sons. This was a family matter. Choosing to sip wine and play good daddy and good husband and hob knob in the luxuries of Vancouver does not make a good father, or a good husband or a good leader. Shame on you David Miller. The brave men and women of this city have missed birthdays, anniversaries, the birth of their children, the death of loved ones. These are always difficult decisions-yet they continue on. To not honour the fallen is to turn our backs on their sacrifice. Their sacrifice was not in vain. Your daughter would have understood, because you would have taught her about sacrifice, you would have taught her about compassion, and you would have taught her about integrity. You would have taught her these things, but maybe you could not, for these are not characteristics of you as a man. Actions speak larger than words. Shame on you Mr. Mayor. As the leader of this city, as the father of this family we call Toronto-you have failed us. No excuses. no apologies accepted.
