Sadly, upon winning the prize, Jack (known as a man of the people) fell victim to a common disease touching many families, including my own. He died from cancer in August … an illness he battled earlier and seemed to conquer. Due to a hip injury, Jack had a cane at his side. During the campaign, he swung it in the air much the way fictional Penelope waves her little umbrella. In fact, CBC television commentator, Rex Murphy, noted Jack waved the cane like a magic wand, moving his Party forward toward its goals.
The puzzle of Jack's untimely death at age 61 at the height of his career leaves me searching for an explanation beyond understanding. For Jack this was the best and worst of times. He left a legacy of concepts that became more palatable under his spell. Since it is unlikely another NDP leader could have gained such success at this time in Canadian politics, his passing was perhaps miraculously delayed until the opposition status was achieved.
When spotting this Jack-'o'-lantern bloom in my garden recently, I was reminded of Layton because of the shared name (Jack) and because orange is the NDP color. The plant travels under the surface to spread beneath the earth. Even in death, Jack's ideals could take deeper root and his aura of optimism light the way like a lantern for the representatives of his Party who are currently searching for another charismatic leader to carry the torch.This post showcases the letter "L" in Layton, lantern, light and leader. Visit ABC Wednesday to see how others showcase letters from A to Z.
Copyright by Penelope Puddlisms
Beautiful post and tribute. Love the photos. I have been soooo busy with deadlines I missed so many "J" posts. Glad to get to this. I feel wholer for it (is 'wholer' a word? )
ReplyDeleteBeautiful post in image and spirit, Penelope. Your lantern photos cast a warm light symbolizing Jack Layton's "aura of optimism" and indomitable heart.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great tribute to a remarkable man.
ReplyDeleteExcellent post and a great tribute.
ReplyDelete"L"ove this post !!
ReplyDeletePheno, ABCW Team
Well written tribute and information.
ReplyDeleteJack sounds like he would have been a real mover to the country. My condolences.
Wish us luck in our Ontario election on the 6th! I like the Penelope bit here :-).
ReplyDeleteGreat tribute. Love the lantern photos.
ReplyDeleteFrom now on, I'll think of Jack when I see those plants!
ReplyDeleteJane x
Beautifully said, and illustrated, my dear friend. He was indeed an inspiration to the people of Canada, and here's hoping his influence spreads — we are badly in need of a grassroots movement in opposition to the ever-more-distasteful policies of the present federal government.
ReplyDelete— K
It's a sad tale for a dynamic man.
ReplyDeleteROG, ABC Wednesday team
Hi, Penelope! You have “hoozuki” in your garden! Is it called Jack-o’-lantern there? Another English name is “Chinese lantern plant” as the unique fruit looks like the Chinese/Japanese lantern made of paper.
ReplyDeleteJack Layton's ideas must be deep-rooted among the poople and his light must be surely missed. The present time is a difficult time for any leaders as economy is sinking slowly worldwide. Do you think “The country gets the leader it deserves” ? It is true in my country. People don’t complain, don’t speak up, or are patient... this attitude has kept the leaders weak, I think. Wish your country’s bright future, and mine, too.
Your piece also highlights the eerie connection here in Canada between elections and Halloween. And I miss Jack, too.
ReplyDeleteL is for Loss
You touch my heart you gave Jack a beautiful tribute here.
ReplyDeleteJack's passing was sad indeed. He will be a "hard act to follow." I'm not sure we have anyone right now who has his charisma. BUT maybe someone will rise from the shadows. :)
ReplyDeleteNice post. It's always sad when someone dies at the height of their powers.
ReplyDelete