The Four Stages of Retirement

Most people retire gradually. They reduce their hours, ease into hobbies, maybe start gardening or develop a deep emotional bond with the Home Depot paint aisle. We skipped all that and went straight to retiring at 50—which, looking back, might have been the most responsible irresponsible decision we’ve ever made. Phase One was not folding…

When the World Shifts — Anchoring in What Matters

“Storms pass. Anchors don’t.” The pace of change today isn’t just quick — it’s dizzying. One moment you think you know where the ground is, and the next it feels like it’s shifted beneath your feet. Culture flips. Institutions wobble. Noise fills the air. And if you’re not anchored to something deeper, it’s far too…

I Love Victoria!

Step into Victoria and you’ll swear you’ve wandered onto a Hallmark movie set. My personal favourite location? Fan Tan Alley—it’s pure storybook charm in real life! Fan Tan Alley: Victoria’s Narrowest, Most Mysterious Street Tucked away in the heart of Victoria’s Chinatown is a sliver of history so narrow you might walk right past it…

How to Survive the Trump Years With Your Spirit Intact

David Brooks.   May 1, 2025 Opinion Columnist I had forgotten how exhausting it is to live in Donald Trump’s world. He’s not only a political figure. He creates a psychological and social atmosphere that suffuses the whole culture — the airwaves, our conversations, our moods. If there is one word to define Trump’s atmosphere, it…

The World is Craving Servant Leadership.

Is it just me, or does the world feel broken? In today’s Canada, the quest for genuine leadership seems more challenging than ever. Where are the visionaries, the leaders who place public good above all? The hallmark of true leadership lies not only in making popular decisions but also in having the courage to make…

Small Businesses and Their Big Impact

Hey there, fellow Victorians and visitors alike!  Have you ever stopped to think about what makes our city, Victoria, BC, so incredibly special? Sure, our picturesque landscapes and historic charm steal the spotlight, but it’s the small businesses that add the heart and soul to our community. Let’s dive into why these local gems are the…

The Joy of Hanging Out with My 6-Year-Old Granddaughter

In the tapestry of life, there are few things more beautiful than spending quality time with a precious soul who sees the world through innocent eyes. As I reflect on the moments spent with my 6-year-old granddaughter, I am reminded of the unparalleled magic that unfolds when generations collide, hearts intertwine, and laughter resonates. From…

Embracing Life’s Pillars: Family, Friends, and Faith

In the wake of a friend’s recent loss of her elderly mother, I was reminded of the profound impact of three foundational elements in life: Family, Friends, and Faith. These pillars, so passionately embraced by the departed soul, reveal the true essence of a fulfilling and purposeful existence. Family, the bedrock of love and support,…