January 2 - Happy New Year

As the New Year begins, I have been reflecting on the year that is past. It has been a significant one for me. When I began the White Cane Connections Walks last March, I thought of the project as a grand and personal adventure. Indeed it was all of that. It was an incredible six months. However, in the beginning I don’t think that I realized how much I would be affected by the project and the people I was privileged to meet during the course of the walks.  Possibly I saw myself as making a difference – and perhaps I did. What I didn’t realize was how the people I met would also make a difference to me.

There are some pretty amazing people out there – people who, without fuss or fanfare, are coping with the daily challenges of living with vision loss. As well as dealing with personal challenges, many find time and energy to advocate on their own behalf and also on behalf of others who are blind or partially sighted. Many participate in social, sporting and community activities, showing the sighted population that doors need not be closed to us who have little or no sight. I feel very fortunate to have met so many of you. Your kindness, courage and generosity of spirit have been a great encouragement to me and I am grateful.

Of course, I am also grateful to the many sighted people – family from far and near, old friends and new acquaintances – who have been generous with their support. In this post, I want to make special mention of Tom and Michelle. Yesterday, on New Year’s Day, Tom and Michelle hosted a wonderful dinner at their restaurant for several community groups. The local White Cane Support Group was one of these. Thank you Tom, Michelle and the staff at the Old Iron Horse Restaurant in Ponoka for your generosity and for a wonderful turkey dinner.

Happy New Year to us all!  May 2013 be good to everyone!