Albertans are hurting – that much should be obvious. After flying so high for so long, the Alberta economy nose-dived into the ground at full speed, and the casualties are spread out all over the province. Coupled with this problem is the fire disaster in Fort McMurray. For people who've been hurt by our economic woes, and those hurt by the Fort McMurray fires, there is no quick solution – the road to recovery will be long and tough. Yes, Albertans by the thousands came out to help the Fort McMurray victims, but it will still be a difficult recovery for all those impacted by the fire.
For the economic victims in Alberta, it's likely that conditions will improve only when the price of oil improves – but again, the recovery will be slow. Oil and gas companies will want to be sure that prices have not only recovered but will also remain stable before they again begin to expand their activities, hire new employees and start spending money again.
For those who are suffering through all these problems, I appreciate that simple words are of little comfort, but perhaps a few thoughts might make things just a little bit better:
1. Stay close to your family. Friends come and go, and acquaintances are simply that – acquaintances, but family is forever. Whether family means grandmother or grandfather, mom and dad, a brother or sister (or brother-in-law or sister-in-law), a wife, a husband, a daughter, a son, an aunt or uncle, grandchildren, or whatever – stay close to your family. Your family loves you – and in times of trouble, they are often the only bright spot on the horizon. Keep them close, they are your rock in difficult days, and they may well need your support even more than you need theirs.
2. Protect your health. If you have your health, no problem is insurmountable. If you do not have your health, nothing else matters very much. If you do not have your health, strive to regain it. Despite all the problems in Alberta, in many ways we still have a wonderful health-care system – a system that provides a wealth of resources to help you. Access those resources – they may make all the difference in the world. And if you still have your health, then protect it. Stop smoking – not only will your health improve, you'll save a pile of money. Get exercise – your attitude will improve. Eat smart and simple – your body will thank you.
3. Continue to give. Give to those who are worse off than you – and trust me – there are a lot of people far worse off than you. If you have no money to give, then give your time. In fact, time is often far more valuable than just money. Giving not only makes you feel better about yourself, giving is the first step in receiving. On the surface it makes no logical sense, but those who would receive must first give – the world is full of thousands of examples that proves the logic of this philosophy every day.
4. Pray to whatever Gods may be. Pray to whatever God you worship, and if you don't worship, maybe it's time to reconsider the possibilities. Does the concept of God make any logical sense? No. Does that matter? No. Many prayers do get answered. Will yours? Well, you'll never know until you try.
Brian McLeod is a resident of St. Albert. His commentary first appeared in the St. Albert Gazette on June 18.
