Aug 19th, 2021: Our Cynicism and Deep Dysfunction

 

Something is sinister about the coming election in Canada. Our parliament has not had a full house meeting to discuss the conditions of our nation since March 2020. It is the first time a minority government has ruled by decrees in Canada. We as a nation have hardly recovered from the impact of COVID-19. Somehow the PM and his party in their infinite wisdom decided to call an election. What is the hurry when we are not even sure life will go back to normal? What are the needs of our nation to have this election on Sept 20th, 2021? How do we know whether we can cast our vote properly if the PM decides to shut down the country again?

We have many other issues that governments need to pay attention to so that we can recover economically as a nation. Many small businesses have closed down. Many others are struggling and afraid of having to face another shutdown. Our health care systems are in serious disarray in many provinces, and our farmers are facing one of the most challenging conditions in history because of the drought. Many young people are struggling with mental illness due to isolation. Our national energy sector feels betrayed when the government has done everything to shut it down while keeping on buying foreign oil (that is not how we should deal with our concerns about the environment).

Why does the PM need to seek a new mandate? Is he looking for a majority government so that he can pass legislation to shut people who oppose him down? Maybe he would rather continue to rule with the security of not having to answer for his government's corruption. We should be more uneasy as the PM continues to use COVID-19 as a way to get his way. It is time for us to ask the question: "Is it sane to call an election now?"

We need to be very careful about allowing our fear to destroy the fundamental human rights that our constitution has established. It is time for us to be wise about how we can deal with this virus more meaningfully. Many small businesses have lost everything when a small number of mega ones have seen unfathomable gain.

Proverbs 3: 1-5

"My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding."

 

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