Hope, and some fears, for the new year
As we approach 2016, media sources provide summaries of the past year. Among the highlights were increased terror attacks, mass destruction of the homelands of innocent people, frightening climate change and other indicators of greed and neglect.
There were, however, positive signs of a new awakening and sense of generosity among Canadians and others. Regardless of political or religious preference or affiliation, I am encouraged by two leaders of late who are making it their mandate to use their leadership to promote optimism, forgiveness, social, ethical and moral responsibility around measures to address the wrongs that have been done: Justin Trudeau and Pope Francis.
We know historically the results of exclusion, racism and hatred. Yet one U.S. political candidate wants to prevent Muslims from coming into his country. If we have any chance of saving our planet we must dig deep into our pockets and our hearts to bring much needed change forward. The ideologies of two men and other leaders are not enough. We must stand together united at this crossroad to create a world where our children and grandchildren can enjoy and thrive in peace, safety and unity.
As a Canadian, I believe that we have the resources to do this and can and are beginning to set the example for others to follow. Donna Modeste, Oshawa Although gun violence and traffic accidents remain the leading causes of death among young people, the most dangerous weapon for the rest of us is still our fork. Well over a million of us are killed each year by high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer and other chronic diseases linked to our meat-based diet.
But times are changing. According to Gallup, 22 per cent of American consumers are avoiding meat and 12 per cent are avoiding dairy products. Supermarket chains offer a growing selection of delicious and healthy plant-based meats and dairy products. Animal meat consumption has dropped by 8 per cent in the past decade.
Let’s make this new year’s resolution about exploring the rich variety of plantbased foods. Andrew Thomas, Toronto