The face isn't always beautiful, though sometimes it can be young and beautiful or older and even more beautiful.
Strange images fill my head this week. The photo of a young pop star accepting a prestigious award from the Prime Minister while wearing overalls, an undershirt and a backwards cap saddened me.
I know many people who have spent decades keeping communities going while sacrificing their time and money and never receiving recognition. I've been delighted by the stories of award winners in the past who have faced challenges and humbly accepted a little token of appreciation for a job well done and continuing. I've been in the room with grateful individuals wearing their one good dress or shirt.
I've heard people defend the young star's choice of wardrobe because he is so young and yet every weekend in this province I see the example of young people wearing nice clothes, even shirts and ties to show respect for the communities they visit as young athletes, community members and artists. They are the examples for others to follow.
I listened to commentators speaking about the half time show at the Grey Cup and how the acts were chosen to attract a younger demographic as fans for the CFL. The choices made me wonder if the demographic they were shooting for was 7-12 year old girls. I hope next year in Regina the choices will reflect the talent of this province and show respect to the fans who have remained loyal throughout the years. The young girls may ask for a Rider t-shirt to wear on green and white day at school, but in most cases they aren't the ones who will love and support the game even when their team is on a losing streak.
Last week I was also lucky enough to see a concert featuring my favourite singer, songwriter and poet. I have attended many shows in the same venue but until the performance didn't know it was possible to get such incredible sound there. The show was simple yet profound and the star showed such grace.
While musicians played their solos he bent to his knee to show his respect. When the other vocalists sang he gave them his full attention and tipped his hat. Even members of the stage crew wore fedoras as they performed their tasks.
At nearly 80 years, the legend spoke kind words to the audience and came back on stage for two encores providing nearly three and a half hours of music. Canada has many faces and I'm grateful for the ones that put a smile on mine.
