Archive for March 22nd, 2008
Solutions for a Great Society

In our ideological directions toward “producing” a greater society, there are many forces at work. Certainly we have to look at political, social and economic forces but not always in that order nor should we ever consider that they are seperate, andc unique entities. I speak often of “integration” and how “Yoga” in its most simplest context represents a great metaphor…and has inherent guiding principles to lead us to this “utopia”…the greatest society that ever was. The reason why I ponder this (I think my contemplations on occasion  have been a little deeper than  “pondering”…I theorize…at the very least…is that I am a citizen of a greater global community and live in a pretty phenomenal country.

It  is clear that we have incredible resources and a diverse representation of the worlds peoples…and we have the “Charter of Rights and Freedoms”. If we are in anyway proud to be Canadian…( and care for the sustainability of this country…and this planet, one can not escape some sense of responsibility to demand that Canada take a very active role in defining what that sustainable (and Healthy) future will/would/should look like.

Many minds are at work…on this definition of sustainable and desirable aka “Healthy/wealthy” future…and they can be part of the problem(s) or part of the solution(s).  For you the reader to qualify as one who is on the “solution” side of things there are some prerequisites at hand. # 1 - you will need to come to an understanding of a full conceptualization of Health. # 2 - You will need to be able to come to terms with the reality that “wealth” cannot be seperated from “health” if we are going to promote and perpetuate sustainability that goes beyond the generations of folks who are with us today. From the oldest elder…to that child that has just been conceived…we all have as stake in what is going to happen tomorrow, next week, next year…but should also care about what will be “the legacy left” and the next century reality.

I think on these things as of late, partly in relation to the Documentaries and Books that are rolling out. The one most relevant to this country and thus the world is the notion of Canada’s wealth in natural resources. The Alberta Tar sands, the Great Lakes (and all the fresh water inside these borders) B.C.’s beauty and access to Asian Markets….and Newfoundlands emerging wealth in petroleum…( and its under-discovered beauty and “real estate”) Forests, farmland and the reality that Global Climate Change will bring emerging opportunity for our Greenhouses and wine countries to dominate the “Greening” and the “relaxation” of the world’s wealthy.

Who would not want a piece of Canada… for sustainability…and survival of masses of humanity….and “democracy” in definition…truly we are wealthy. We are also positioned to be  the “promoters” and “sustainers” of health. Programs will be rolling out that bring more empowerment to individuals to remain (or regain) a state of health. Corporate Responsibility and the Green movement, will also bring a significant tide of investment in the health and wealth of the country and its citizens. Corporate Wellness programs are said to bring a return financially of three to one…three $ of return for every one $ of investment. If we maintain our publicly funded system of health care that helps those that are injured or ill,…and we have reasonable corporate taxes…what company in the world would not want to put down stakes in Canada…it just makes economic sense. I cannot believe that oppressive societies and their governments (and those that have little regard for ecological consequences) can keep the best and the brightest…they, with enough income are leaving their homeland behind for sustainability of their off-spring and the future.

So….return here and follow the links …as I post through Primary Health Care (look to the left of the screen and you will see the link)…I will share my theories, my contemplations…my ponderings as to what are the solutions that should be adopted in London, Toronto, Ottawa, Windsor…and the rest of the country. It is time that we “see” the metaphor that defines integration…Health is Wealth…Wealth is Health…. Socio-politico-economics is and inseperable concept and context. Health Care, Education, Social and Community Services, Service Clubs, Faith Communities and worthy Charities….should/would/could find a mutual environment from which a “New Society” will emerge, and prosper in a sustainable and “green” country.

BE the change, BE well,

Dave