Dear Friends,

I know this past weekend has been difficult. One where you would normally have gathered with friends and family to celebrate Passover, Easter, or Vaisakhi. Usually at this time you might have attended church or temple, or volunteered with a local community organization but this year, we have had to adapt. Just because we are separated physically, does not mean that we cannot lean on one another for support. 

As I have said before, Burlingtonians are a resilient bunch. I have seen families and friends on social media demonstrate their resolve through these challenging times and where they once would have gathered for dinner in person, their holiday celebrations are now being celebrated online over video conference and instead of having an egg hunt around the neighbourhood, the hunt continues indoors and backyards.

I know this is not easy. This is an uncertain and difficult time but I am happy to see so many stories of Burlingtonians still managing to connect this weekend in innovative ways to celebrate the holidays. Even in this time of isolation, we can still come together. 

A recent survey has indicated that over half of Canadians have felt lonely during the past few weeks and I want you to know that you are not alone. As a friend, a family member, and colleague, I encourage you to pick up your phone and send someone you have not spoken to in a bit a message to let them know that you're thinking about them. 

Technology allows us to have a virtual coffee, a meal, or play a game together and while we are physically apart, does not mean that we cannot build our relationships so that we become closer.

We must continue to follow the advice of our local health authorities when it comes to physical distancing and restrictions on mass gatherings, even if that includes disrupting regular services for the time being.  Done right, these measures will save lives and bring us slowly, but surely, back to normal. 

The future is in our hands, we know what we have to do and we have the courage just to stay home. 

I would like to conclude with a special thank you to all the first responders working in our hospitals and to keep our streets safe over this holiday long weekend. We stay home for you. 

Chag pesach Sameach, Happy Easter, and Happy Vaisakhi to all those celebrating.

Sincerely,

Hon. Karina Gould
Member of Parliament
Burlington         

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