a peek inside the fishbowl

The highlight of my morning (and I mean that in the most sarcastic way) was when I accidentally poured strawberry-flavoured soy milk into my freshly-brewed coffee.

I didn’t clue in to what I had done until a full second later. Dammitall! So I drank my coffee with the uninvited and not-so-subtle flavour of strawberry Quik. Gah.

Today is important for two reasons.

1) It’s voting day here in Ottawa. I know many of reading this are out-of-towners so this doesn’t mean anything to you guys. But I also know that many of you are in Ottawa and are therefore eligible to vote – and I humbly request that you do so.

I don’t usually wear my political leanings on my sleeve, but I’m voting for Alex Munter. He believes in a greener Ottawa (pro-recycling, anti pesticide) and these are big issues for me.

There’s also an election for city councilor. My vote is going to Vicki Smallman. She’s smart, energetic, compassionate, and she truly loves this ward. Her views on development are aligned with my own. So that’s where I’m placing my trust.

2) Dagne F. and I are doing door-to-door to petition to help save the Maison Jeanne D’Arc. We’re also going to stake out the neighborhood polling station to see if we can collect extra signatures as people come to vote.

I’m scared stiff. This is a difficult thing for someone who is, at the core, an introvert.

I notified Mark of my plan last night. I think he was mildly surprised. It’s just not in my nature to knock on doors. Perhaps he sensed my anxiety.

“So are you becoming an activist now?” he asked, half-joking.

I wasn’t sure what to answer. Yes? No?

“You have to stand up for the things you believe in,” I said.

The truth is that I’ve never really done that before. I’ve spoken, but not acted. And you know what? It feels pretty good. Wish me luck. And don’t forget to vote!