Foster Care 
ARE YOU REALLY UP TO THE JOB? 29th March 2011
Albertans like to remind the rest of the country that they are not only up to the job but can prove it. Look at our economy – it’s the best in Canada. Our farming, our industry and our oil have produced a strong economic base which is the envy of Canada as a whole. Much of the USA would like to be where we are today, especially in these somewhat depressed economic times. But, and it is a big BUT. The excellent dollars that we ‘own’ are typically in the hands of only a few. The richness of our communities in reality resides in the hands of the majority, though poorer, less fickle citizens of Alberta! Without the people the economy is worthless, pointless and empty.
It is the people who give meaning, direction purpose and definition to what we call society. Having worked in three countries over the past 50 years, much of the time delving into the minds, thoughts/expressions and intentions of peoples passed experiences, the economy and an individual’s part in that economy is not front and centre in their hearts. What we all need and want is to be secure and loved. It’s as simple as that! Everything else places a shady second. Oh yes, there are those who will do anything for a dollar but what they seek is the ability to purchase the affection they crave. Inevitably this core craving began in infancy and was never satisfied.
We as Albertans have a stable heartland mentality that holds our society’s values secure and unmovable. We value the land; we value our freedom and we value the air we breathe but most of all we value our families and their rich heritage. Our future is being built within our children, they are the future of this province, and they are our future leaders. Without them we have no future!!!? The sad reality however is that a large number of our children get lost each year having been constructed with faulty materials and at the first sign of a disaster disappear forever into drugs, alcohol, addictions and despair, never to be found again. They minds and bodies, created for brightness, creativity and purpose, are beaten, bruised, maimed, and frightened beyond reason scaring them emotionally for life. If the degradation continues then the cycle continues to multiply itself, eventually destroying our heartland wholeness. If you don’t want to believe this then open your eyes and look around.
Many of you have great homes and loving families and you are the fortunate ones. I am going to ask you what you really value and if I guess right, I’m going to ask you to consider sharing that vitality and life with those who, for reasons far beyond their control, are removed from their homes. These are our community’s children, the future of our province who just want and need to be loved. They need you!? Do you as Albertans really care about the future? Are you up to the job? You could be responsible for producing one of our future leaders. Or, are you willing, like so many, to watch as these children disappear forever without hope?
For more information about how you can help call (403) 755-6104 or call
Mike O’Connor,
Trochu Neighbourhood Place
403 442 2839