Words of Wisdom by Mario Calanna

Hello Club Members,

Welcome to Spring and to September.

Our family achieved a  milestone this week when our Grand-daughter – Madeline – turned THREE. It is just  amazing how time moves - right in front of your eyes.  Over the past 12 months I have seen many young      children (courtesy of FB friends) change and grow. All these little children are innocent and are a blank  canvas. How will their story, their picture, their purpose – be shaped? And by whom?

Each will rely very closely on the language, the people, the TV programs, the books, the activities they will be associated with as they grow to school age and beyond. All of what we think do and say. All the associations we have, play a large part in the adult each of these children will   become and the life they will lead. Hopefully they will all  become achieving and giving members of our community and adopt a mindset of  Accountability, Responsibility and Optimism rather than one of Blame, Excuses and Denial.  Their fate is – in most part – entrusted in parents, family and close friends well before the school system takes hold.

Father’s day comes in this same week. A time to consider the importance and the role a father needs to play within the family. There is a book I have read entitled “Strong Fathers  Strong Daughters”. Good role models are so critical in the growth of young children – this month it is time to reflect the importance and the expectation of Fatherhood. If you are a father – you only have one chance to do the best by your children.

I recall last year Madeline gave me a card on Father’s day - 

 “ Nonno, my favourite place in the whole wide world is right inside your HUG – thank you for everything you do for me and the time you spend with me”.

For those who know me – not too much tugs more at my heart-strings than a good and genuine HUG. It engenders laughter, good feelings and provides the lift you so badly need at times. I believe it is a symbol of   unity, of sharing, of empathy and a willingness to understand.

So for this month and  beyond – be aware of the one’s close to you. Be aware on how you influence them. Lead them to the best associations and activities. Always keep their Tomorrows” in mind.  For things are achieved or destroyed moment by moment, day by day – through the compound effect. The changes are      noticed (not in the  moments) but by looking back over the past “Tomorrows”.

Let us build the best Tomorrows for ourselves and the very young.

God Bless…………………Mario