Happiness

I am back from a lovely vacation. In Ottawa I spent time with John and his new girlfriend, the kind and beautiful Camille. We ate out in great restaurants, spent some time in John's apartment, and went to a tea shop where I got a vanilla green tea that was superb. We sat out in the street and were treated to the talents of a street musician. We also biked along the waterways which was so much fun! In Montreal we camped out in Rachel and Joel's well-appointed apartment and were served two amazing breakfasts and a scrumptious supper. We went to see a photography exhibit and we also went to a comic book event. I bought one of the comics which are pretty funny... although some in the crowd were offended, a rather vocal minority, who didn't see the joke. For them, it just wasn't funny to poke fun at sacred cows, namely Canada's indigeneous issues, and the residential schools. To be fair, the author did not really poke fun at the expense of the Native peoples, but for some this is no laughing matter ever.

A highlight of the weekend was seeing the blood red moon. We didn't see the full eclipse as by that time we were in bed. Still it was pretty spectacular! That was Sunday night. Sunday morning we attended a wonderful service with Rachel and Joel. All in all it was a great weekend. I will show some pictures later. Another great thing was the crape I had with blueberries, strawberries, chocolate and cream on Sunday afternoon.

It is also good to be home. I have some work to do tidying up my room. I have Bible study with morning again which I always enjoy. I think I may have something this afternoon as well.


Life in Canada is good! We are fortunate to live here. Some people in the world do not have the blessings we sometimes fail to even notice, like running water and electricity and a selection of shoes. Or even a home that keeps out the rain and snow. Many people do not even have a room of their own.

I am blessed to be in my family. My parents are kind and considerate people. My sisters are lovely and good. My brother is kind with a good sense of humour. I am looking forward to January when we will all be together again for Linda's and Mike's wedding.

A good point that Rachel and Joel's pastor made was that it is not about our happiness. That will follow as a matter of course. But actually we should be seeking first the kingdom of God, and only then will all these things be added unto us. It was a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and what kingdom goals entail. Happiness is not the object. It is a by-product of a life well-lived, wherever you find a place to lay your head.