I'm Back (Just Barely) for Day Two


After making my big 'announcement' yesterday, I took an unscheduled holiday. Frankly, I thought I would be eating some crow on my next post, having to make my apologies for not keeping my word after only one day. Looks like I beat the clock though.

Here in Toronto, we were part of what is being called the biggest blackout in North American history. I understand that upwards of 50 million people in northeastern US and Ontario, Canada were without electricity and water. And with the temperature stuck at 31C (88F) and a humidex factor close to 40C (104F) it got very uncomfortable rather quickly in our 18th floor condo.

We were relieved to hear that terrorism was immediately ruled out. After 9/11, that was one of the first thoughts on the minds of many people, especially those in New York City.

As it turns out, those of us involved in the blackout are apparently all part of the same power grid. A problem with one sector had a domino effect that wiped out an area of several thousand square miles.

Isn't that just like life? One person can and does make a huge difference. Take our fearless leader, Gary for example. He will be away for a couple of weeks and during that time we WILL miss his light.

I must tell you that many wonderful things happened during those 11 hours. Ordinary citizens were out directing traffic and generally helping wherever they could. People were meeting their neighbors, many for the first time even though they lived on the same street for years, as they gathered around battery-powered radios sharing the news. A huge bonus for us big city dwellers is that we got to see the stars shining in our night sky for the first time. It was an awesome experience!

Similarly, it would be so nice for the 'ordinary citizens' of this weblog to take this opportunity to come out and introduce yourselves to the rest of the readership during Gary's absence. Let's surprise him when he gets back by showing him how far his influence has spread throughout the world. You can do that simply by replying to one of your favorite posts and/or creating your own.

What do you say? Shine a little light of your own. Come on out and share in Gary's absence.

Best wishes from Toronto,
Russ