Every day the news about the worldwide pandemic is heartbreaking, concerning and hopeful all at once. My heart is full of gratitude for the tireless and selfless efforts of so many Canadians.

The message of my presentation was that anyone can be a leader­ in creating accessible and inclusive workplaces and marketplaces

Today as I was sitting in a café enjoying a latte, my attention was caught by the conversation at the next table between an older man and a teenager I assumed were a grandfather and grandson. From their tone, it was obvious that there were differences in how each generation perceived whatever topic they were discussing. I detected passion, with a hint of humour.

Like many students, I kept a journal of my thoughts and experiences during my elementary school years. These books were filled with pictures, words and stories of my time at school. One particular event is captured in these pages.

Last year, after one of my presentations, an audience member came over to chat. He told me that once a year, he and the other members of his local service club go to the garden centre, pick out flowers and then head over on a Saturday morning to a home in his neighbourhood where several people with disabilities live, to plant the gardens for them…