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For most of my adult life, I identified as left-of-centre. I supported progressive policies on social issues, the environment, and equality. But over the past few years—especially now, at 51—I’ve found myself increasingly out of step with parts of the contemporary left. Not because my values changed, but because many of the policies being pushed today feel more disruptive than constructive. They often reshape core institutions, family structures, or economic systems without clear evidence that the changes will work long-term.
This isn’t a turn toward extremism. I still care deeply about compassion, fairness, and progress. What has changed is my tolerance for sweeping experimentation without rigorous testing. I want policy that is incremental, evidence-based, and willing to adjust when data shows something isn’t working. That’s not ideology—it’s responsibility.Seeking evidence-driven solutions isn’t inherently “right-wing.” Both sides claim to follow the data, but in practice, good policy should transcend labels. Historically, Canadian conservatism has often embodied this approach: balanced budgets, stable institutions, and pragmatic reforms that build on what already works rather than tearing systems down in pursuit of unproven theories.
Yet critics are quick to slap on labels like “Maple MAGA”—a term meant to equate any Canadian centre-right view with the most polarizing elements of U.S. Trumpism. It’s a lazy shortcut, designed to shut down conversation rather than understand it. Not every conservative is a populist firebrand. Many people—myself included—are simply tired of rapid, ideologically driven changes that risk destabilizing society without demonstrating clear benefits.
I’m not closed off. If strong evidence emerges showing that bold progressive policies genuinely improve stability, opportunity, and quality of life, I’m willing to reconsider. But right now, I see more promise in cautious, proven approaches that respect the complexity of the systems we’re trying to improve.
What about you? Have your views shifted as you’ve gained more life experience? I’m interested in real dialogue: no smears, no lazy labels, and no assumptions that a shift in perspective means abandoning core values.
To all of my friends and followers I wish you the most merry of holiday times. May the long nights be filled with warm blankets, hot chocolate, and holiday cheer. Thank you for your time and engagement here at DWR I appreciate your comments and contributions to the blog.
Bach’s Mass in B minor BWV 232 needs no introduction. It is “The Mass” that stands above all sacred works. I present it here in full realized by the Netherlands Bach Society.
May the Mass take you where you need to go to pause and reflect on this time year.
Happy Holidays, Folks! Take care of yourselves.
The Arbourist
The Humane Society kitty lottery came through in spades for me. Meet Quincy, a energetic yet loving fellow who is quite passionate about food and looking out the window. :)
A few houses down, there’s this neighbour who’s basically declared his yard a no-maintenance zone, and it’s got the whole block groaning. Every winter, we’re all out shoveling to keep the sidewalks clear, but his place? A snow-drift disaster that forces people to shuffle into the street. Come summer, his lawn’s a chaotic sprawl of overgrown grass and invasive weeds that look ready to invade the rest of the neighborhood. Like, come on—how hard is it to just run a mower over your lawn once a week-ish? It’s not like we’re begging for a botanical masterpiece, just some basic effort.
From where I’m at, I don’t have to deal with his mess directly, but you can’t miss it strolling by—it’s like a black hole sucking the charm out of the street. It’s not just about curb appeal; those weeds don’t respect property lines, creeping into other yards, and the unshoveled snow makes life harder for kids or anyone passing through. Keeping your yard decent shows you’re in it with the rest of us, not thumbing your nose at the neighborhood. A quick mow, a bit of edging, or a few minutes with a shovel isn’t a huge ask—it’s like saying, “Hey, I care about this place too.”
I don’t know what’s up with the guy—maybe he’s got bigger fish to fry—but letting your yard turn into the block’s eyesore feels like a choice. Nobody’s expecting him to sculpt topiaries or build a snow fort; just do the minimum so we’re not all dealing with the fallout. We’re all pitching in to keep the street looking like a community, not a free-for-all. A little sweat with a mower or a weed-puller goes a long way to keeping things neighborly.
An antidote :) –
In Loving Memory of Fiona
Today, we said goodbye to our beloved Fiona, a beautiful white cat whose gentle presence brought warmth and joy to our lives every day. Fiona passed away on April 1, 2025, after a brave battle with diabetes and a urinary tract infection that led to kidney failure. She left this world peacefully, surrounded by love, during her final visit to the vet.
Fiona was the epitome of affection, always eager to snuggle and cuddle. Her favorite place was curled up under the covers, right next to her human, where she would drift off to sleep each night, purring softly. Her fluffy white fur and loving nature made her a constant source of comfort and companionship, and her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.
Though her time with us was cut short by illness, Fiona’s memory will live on in the countless moments of warmth and love she gave so freely. She was more than a pet—she was family, a loyal friend, and a cherished soul who made every day brighter.
Rest in peace, sweet Fiona. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Best nap zone Evar!!
White Cat approves of LoL!
Good Bye Fiona. = Give peace, O Lord, in our days
Da pacem, Domine, in diebus nostris
Give peace, O Lord, in our days
I think we all need a plan for organizing how we live life. I’m completely down with Stoicism. Have a Happy New Year Everyone!
The Stoic philosophy, originating from ancient Greece, emphasizes living in accordance with nature and reason. Here are seven key values or principles central to Stoicism:
Wisdom (Sophia): Stoics place a high value on wisdom, which includes understanding the nature of the world, ourselves, and the rational principles governing life. Wisdom helps in making sound judgments and living virtuously.
Courage (Andreia): This involves moral and physical courage to face dangers, difficulties, and uncertainties with fortitude. Stoicism teaches to confront fears and to act despite them, not to be reckless but to be brave in pursuit of what is right.
Justice (Dikaiosyne): Stoics believe in treating everyone with fairness and respect, living in accordance with societal laws and ethical norms. Justice here extends to all human interactions, advocating for equality, honesty, and integrity.
Temperance (Sophrosyne): Also known as self-control or moderation, this value encourages restraint in desires and appetites. It’s about achieving balance in life, avoiding excess, and maintaining discipline over one’s actions.
Acceptance of Fate (Amor Fati): Stoics advocate for loving or at least accepting one’s fate, understanding that some things are beyond our control. This acceptance helps in living without resentment or frustration over what cannot be changed.
Living in Accordance with Nature (Homologia tei Phusei): This principle suggests living in harmony with the natural world and human nature, which includes rational behavior. It’s about recognizing and fulfilling one’s role in the cosmos.
Mindfulness and Reflection (Prosoche): Stoicism encourages constant awareness of one’s thoughts and actions, often through daily reflection or meditation. This mindfulness helps in aligning one’s life with Stoic virtues and in making ongoing improvements to character.
These values guide Stoics towards a life of virtue, which they consider the only true good, and help in achieving inner tranquility (apatheia) and a life of purpose. Remember, Stoicism isn’t just about enduring hardship but about thriving through wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance.
In the quietude of our collective longing, let us unite our voices in a prayer for peace, echoing the ancient plea of “Da pacem Domine.” As the serene tones of this choral work ascend, may they carry with them our deepest yearnings for solace in a world too often marred by strife. In this moment, let each note be a beacon of hope, drawing us closer to the tranquility we seek, reminding us that in the stillness, there lies the possibility for healing, for understanding, and for a peace that transcends our divisions.
Pause. Breathe. Let this music ripple through your thoughts. Find your peace. Renew yourself and your connections to others, that is all that matters.
bleatmop
Mystro
The Arbourist
Dead Wild Roses 
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