Do you remember Flora Macdonald? For sixteen years she was a Progressive Conservative member of parliament (emphasis on the progressive) and served as Canada's External Affairs minister. Now in retirement she is anything but retiring.
Last night the C.B.C. did an excellent piece on Ms. Macdonald's work in Afghanistan. http://www.cbc.ca/sunday/2008/10/101908_1.html With a huge staff of one she is making a difference in one of that country's poor provinces. She travels with her Afghani driver/ translator/project manager establishing solar panel installations in small villages. The panels power fluorescent lights which allow local artisans to extend their work days and help children to stay in school. They are also doing work in supplying clean water, reducing child mortality, as well as birth control for women. Not bad for one 82-year old senior citizen and her resourceful and dedicated sidekick. To see her hopping around the rocks crossing a stream is remarkable.
What a wonderful initiative by someone who could be kicking back in her golden years. How much support is this former cabinet minister getting from the Canadian government? Zip. Nada. Macdonald is doing this work on a limited budget without any government funding, even though billions are being spent in Afghanistan. A foundation called Future Generations is the source of her funding and while home in Canada Macdonald tells groups about what they are accomplishing.
As I watched this documentary I was very proud of this fine Canadian. I don't know what Ms Macdonald's religious convictions are but Jesus's phrase "whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me" comes to mind.
82 years old! Good for her! Actually, I believe that a lot of people who give their time and skills to others are of retirement age. I think there is something to be said about not having to worry a 40-hour a week job. So many retirees say they are busier after retirement then before, but I think many are doing what they want to be doing and not what they have to be doing. Thank God we have those who want to give of themselves to "the lease of these."
ReplyDeleteGod bless all of our seniors who give their time to our churches. I don't know where we'd be without them!
What an inspiration to us all. Thanks for bringing Flora Macdonald's story to our attention David. In the local paper this morning there was a letter from a female university student bemoaning the fact that there are few role models for Canada's young women. At her all-girls high school last year they honoured American Madeline Albright- former secretary of state- for her personification of success and dedication. Perhaps the school should have looked a little harder closer to home.
ReplyDeleteSo often when I read comments I want to say "good point!" That is the case with both Deb and Shirley.
ReplyDeleteThe contributions of seniors are of tremendous value in our society and slowing down doesn't mean the end of compassion and dedication.
We do need strong role models for young women and who could be better than Flora.
Thanks to both of you.