Life’s challenges are shared responsibility

Randall Denley’s observations have brought a balance to the conversation initiated last week by columnist Angelina Chapin. Although Chapin’s comments are noteworthy, they do underscore the notion that we are somehow collectively responsible to address everyone’s dissatisfaction with their life. Whether we compare so-called privileged whites to the plight of visible minorities or draw attention to some other alleged imbalance in our society, the “we-they” factor is a reality of life.

While we can show compassion and offer a helping hand for those in need, conquering the challenges on the highway of life is a shared responsibility. Rather than routinely looking to others to address perceived injustices or blaming someone else for our lot in life, perhaps the answers to some of the problems may come from taking a long look in a mirror.

Dale Boire, Ottawa