In the last 2 issues of The Citizen, I have chosen to honour those of the builder generation. Alex Fast and Jack Stott, both deceased, were part of a generation that lived through some very challenging times, including 2 world wars and a depression that lasted the better part of a decade.

I believe that we live in a time of diminished honour. By that, I mean that we show little regard and care for those we walk alongside every day. The result is that most people have to die for us to reflect back on the contributions they made, and that is very sad.

So what is a community builder? Do they have to be seniors at the end of their lives? Is a community builder someone who has gained monetary success? Jesus said that the greatest among us are the servants of all. To me, that defines what a community builder really is: a servant. Someone who exhibits care for others that goes beyond self-interest. We need to ask ourselves: are we living for ourselves, or do we have a heart for others?

Yes, we need business to thrive and prosper. However, I am just as impacted when I meet people who have a passion for social causes. People need to experience what it’s like to be loved, valued, and honoured. When they gain a sense of dignity and value for themselves, they can begin to feel hope.

In the coming months, I want to continue to honour the many community builders in this town. Some of them may not be considered prominent, but they are all making a difference by serving others.