While winter is upon us, we are also experiencing a resurgence of social activity in La Ronge. Several activities, including the 37th annual Morningstar Faire, have drawn crowds of people out to experience time together following close to three years of pandemic.
We have seen unprecedented lineups at our local post office, with people eagerly awaiting their $500 cheques promised by the Provincial government.
That has been challenging for many. When announced in August, the timeline was just the fall of 2022. Later it became November, but no details as to when the cheques would be in the mail.
I can’t imagine the work stress of our post office staff in dealing with this, apart from the daily operation of an already busy place.
One of the exciting pieces of news here, the coming out of five books, all relating to the north and by local authors.
Each one holds much wisdom and reflects the north. I am trying to write something about each one and with it comes my challenge of a monthly deadline. I never had a problem finding stories to fill The La Ronge Northerner weekly over the years. But now it’s a different rhythm. I am, as always, honoured to have the opportunity to share the stories of people and events in the community.
The communities reflect the season with the increasing colourful lights and decorations appearing, particularly in the warmer days in the last week or so.
The holiday season can be a complex one. I remember when I was a Girl Guide leader and Commissioner, becoming more aware of the importance of this time of year for so many people around the world.
We were encouraged to talk about the Holiday Season, not focus just on the Christian Christmas.
Pretty much every culture around the world has special celebrations at this time of year that is important to their people. It amazes me that we don’t see that more reflected in our communities, particularly with the increase in people from other parts of the world making Lac La Ronge their home.
As someone who has an appreciation for words, holiday doesn’t always reflect the true sense of the season perhaps for everyone in our communities; it is, perhaps, more open and welcoming.
The commercialising of Christmas itself, has always been problematic to me.
It was a challenge for me when my children were younger to try to get the “true meaning of Christmas” out of the mass commercial stage.
I have enjoyed learning about other people’s traditions and having the opportunity to gather with others and celebrate the season.
Happy Holidays everyone!
