Jack Layton - A Visionary Leader for Our TimesJack Layton 1950-2011 A visionary leader of the highest calibre has died prematurely, and a country mourns his loss. Orange, Red, Blue of Green – the colour of your favourite political party is of no relevance today. All Canadians recognize the loss of a very special leader indeed. It is hoped that his legacy will inspire others, regardless of political affiliation, to stand in his shoes and do the right thing, no matter how challenging that thing is.Jack Layton. July 18 1950-August 22 2011 
Jack Layton died August 22, 2011 surrounded by loved ones at his Toronto home. A meaningful life destroyed cancer at 61, this great leader has done the impossible. His visionary leadership elevated the NDP (New Democratic Party) to Opposition status, annihilating the Bloc Quebecois, a much reviled political separatist party whose goal is to separate Quebec from Canada, in the last Canadian election. Salutes from around the world are pouring in to his wife, Member of Parliament Olivia Chow. MP Libby Davies is quoted as saying “He humanized politics. People feel so cynical about politics and politicians, we all get a bum rap. And I think Jack's enthusiasm — he just loved what he did."(1) A Tribute to a Visionary Leader One of my favourite quotes is by Marshall Ferdinand Foch: The most powerful weapon on earth is the soul on fire. The Honourable Mr Layton was the epitome of that philosophy (see link to his last letter, below). Even in his farewell address, he called on people to be hopeful and optimistic – the hallmarks of visionary leaders, of global visionaries. In his words: If I have tried to bring anything to federal politics, it is the idea that hope and optimism should be at their heart. This inspirational quote is Mr Layton’s moving last public address, delivered the day he announced he was once again battling cancer. A gaunt and frail shadow of his former self, his appearance and the obvious grave nature of his condition spurred a tsunami of support for his battle from every corner of the country, partisan stance notwithstanding. Click on image above to view the video of Jack Layton’s last public speech. More Inspirational Jack Layton Quotes Oftentimes, life's highs and lows are inextricably linked.(2) Bono is no longer supporting the prime minister's position...neither are Canadians. When you're sick, you present your medicare card, not your credit card. New Democrats will not stand idly by. We will be fighting each and every day for our precious medicare system When you bring good ideas forward in the context of a Parliament where no one party has been given the absolute authority to proceed, then you roll up your sleeves, you discuss, you negotiate. Every member of Parliament has been sent there by Canadians, and that decision should be respected, and that member of Parliament should be respected. What we need to do is stand up for ourselves when we're unfairly treated. Just submitted by a Calgary reader: the letter he wrote to all Canadians, 2 days before his passing: Jack Layton’s Last Letter to Canadians Where to donate? Please contact your local NDP offices for information on where to donate, or the Canadian Cancer Society . Have an official source for donations? Please contact us, left? (1) From canada.com/news (2) From Jack Layton’s memoir Remaining quotes are widely found in the public domain. Video: CanuckPolitics.com Pay it Forward & Share with your Social Network! Here, using OnlyWire or using the "Share This Page' Footer on any page: Find Great Leaders Clickable Image & Links to Articles
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Outstanding leaders, the Canadian Mental Health Association presents Annual Art in Bloom event. Click poster for more info & plan to attend in 2012 - Enjoy!
