Every so often, I see a photo and it calls out me. Makes me stop. Examine it closer. Then pause to tell its story.
I saw this canoe in a friend’s Instagramstories. And, almost immediately, a poem was born. I love when that happens!Big magic. Creative flow. Joy.A spark which ignited my writing, and reminded me why I love to play with words.
This summer most of my creativity has been outdoors in the yard and garden.I feel this was a nudge from the universe to devote more time to writing. Thank you Catriona for the inspiration, and for allowing me to use your photo! 📷
Photo: Catriona Kaiser-Derrick
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱
on the shoreline, calling out to her, as it did every summer when she returned.
Willing her
to slowly push away from all she carried, to become one with the water.
To slowly edge her paddle in, to feel the resistance and then,
It has been one week since the 2025 Federal Election. This is my letter to our representatives across Canada.
Sandi Knight Photo
Dear newly elected or incumbent members of parliament,
Thank you for putting your name forward to run for office. Congratulations on succeeding in capturing the votes and confidence of the people in your riding. I am certain this is not a job you take lightly.
To be in government is to be in service, and throughout your term I hope you, and those working alongside you, always remember you are working for all Canadians. You are responsible for using our hard-earned tax dollars wisely. Government money is our money. Perhaps this should be on doorways, desks and screensavers throughout parliament and every government office.
As you work, please be diligent in providing what Canadians need while being fiscally responsible, just as we must be when providing for our households, businesses, and organizations.
And please, can you bring respect and decorum into Question Period? The yelling and demeaning of others is appalling. Frankly, it is an embarrassment. The last time I was at a question period, there were Girl Guides in the gallery. I wondered what they were thinking as they watched and listened to the unruly display of so-called ‘responsible adults’ at work for their constituents.
This type of behaviour does not solve problems, nor is it tolerated anywhere else. So why is it allowed in government? It must change if we are to progress.
We absolutely need healthy debate, checks and balances. However, it can and should be done with respect and rules. If you disagree with a plan or policy, please state what you see as flaws, then provide an alternate solution.
I truly believe, no matter how people voted, we are all looking for: equitable human rights, affordable housing, groceries, utilities and transportation, access to healthcare, education, clean drinking water, safe, supportive communities and programs which enhance our lives and a vibrant economy.
We are trusting you to do your best to provide all of this throughout your term in office. Please work for us as hard as you campaigned for your position.
Thank you for doing what you can for the strength and betterment of every Canadian, our communities, and our country.
Sandi Knight 