We Albertans certainly have faced more than our share of challenges over the past year.
Low oil prices, a Canadian dollar in free fall, increases in taxes and mounting job losses are taking a toll. Times are tough, and they're getting tougher.
That being said, I have always believed that adversity reveals character. If we're looking for inspiration, history is filled with just the sort of characters we need.
Last Jan. 25 marked what is known as Robbie Burns Day, the 257th birthday of one of the western world's best known poets and lyricists. Some of us will be paying a tribute to the late Robbie Burns at the Innisfail Legion on Friday evening.
Long before Mr. Robert Burns became known as the National Bard of Scotland, he truly was the 'Ploughman Poet.' The first of seven children, his father was a tenant farmer who died in bankruptcy.
However, poverty was unable to crush young Robert. In fact, it helped forge a rebellious, driven spirit. He learned to fight as fiercely as he loved.
Robbie Burns wasn't born great, but he worked at it most diligently, breathing life into words, bringing true heart to his work. He had many loves in his life, including a close personal connection with the Highlands. It's a sentiment that those of us who grew up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains understand very well.
From the enduring commitment to the cause of freedom, I have always felt Scotland and Alberta share a kinship. When the spirit of Robbie Burns is taken into account, our connection runs deep.
Whether it's proposing alternatives to get our economy back on track, or giving voice to the concerns of our rural communities, please know that the Opposition Wildrose Party will continue to stand up for Albertans.
In recent weeks we have taken steps to ensure farm families receive the information they need regarding Bill 6, to defend our energy industry, and to create and protect jobs in our province.
We remain dedicated to the vision of an Alberta, strong and free, where hard work and determination bring new hope and new opportunity.
As for the challenges ahead, I have faith in Albertans to see our province through. Adversity reveals character, and even in difficult times character is one resource we will always have in abundance.
As the MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake I have been meeting with constituents and groups, including students at Poplar Ridge School, Delburne town council, the Sylvan Lake Watershed Stewardship Society and the Sylvan Interagency.
And at this difficult moment in our history, I believe it is important that we discuss how we can work together to help each other through this tough economy. If your group would like to meet with me about this or other concerns feel free to contact my office at [email protected].
Don MacIntyre is the MLA for the Innisfail-Sylvan Lake riding
