Is there a time when “looking ahead” stops and “looking back begins?" Christmas gives rise to such a depth of embracing memories while the New Year brims full of hope and promise. I think that we are meant to look both ways for as long as possible.
New projects for writers group
For the past couple of months the Quesnel Wordspinners writers group has been considering updating the ‘Tribute to the Past’ which documented stories of families living in the Quesnel area prior to 1929. This coincides with the date of the Village of Quesnel.
This first book was produced by a book committee of the O.A.P.O. branch #77 and made possible by the New Horizons Program, Health and Welfare Canada.
The writers group realizes it is a very big project but as more time goes by there is a greater sense of urgency. We are losing so many of our pioneers each year taking their stories with them.
This is just to give everyone a heads up that we will be accepting stories of families that moved to the area within School District 28 after 1929 up to 1958 although that date has not been set in stone. Decisions will be made by the book committee of Quesnel Wordspinners and then we’ll formally get the word out.
My reason for trying to let people know as soon as possible is the possibility of families getting together over the holidays. They may be able to come up with stories and photos.
Call me at 250-992-1567 for any questions you may have regarding this project.
Identify photos
Along the same theme I would like to stress the importance of printing names and dates on backs of photos stashed away for safe keeping. While sitting around a dinner table recently the topic came up of what a problem it is to tell just who is who in old photos. It is not uncommon for a member of the family of a loved one who has passed to find themselves in such a dilemma. Among my parents’ treasures from a Regina nursing home was a suitcase of dad’s memorabilia from service in both wars and old photos without any names. Most had little value to me. Perhaps that could be a new year’s resolution.
10 Commandments for Happiness
1.Cultivate a sense of humour and remember much gloom has been created by those who take life too seriously.
2.Don’t despise your body but develop it for strength and beauty. Eat wholesome food, exercise regularly and take plenty of sleep.
3.Have a dominating, worthwhile purpose in life and allow nothing to interfere with its fulfillment.
4.Look upon your job as the most important thing in the world and strive ever to do it perfectly.
5.Be yourself. Don’t try to imitate others.
6.Live within your means despite your desires or what the neighbours have.
7.Don’t worry about the future. Worry is the death of happiness.
8.Learn about nature to discover the beauty, melody and fragrance in life.
9. Don’t seek happiness for it is one thing which cannot be found.
10. Above all always try to contribute to the happiness of others for in so doing you will discover happiness in your own mind.
-From An Old Scrapbook. Happy New Year.
Ruth Scoullar is a seniors' advocate and regular Observer contributor.