G8 Officially Arrives

With our usual route into town being closed off and OPP on literally every corner, we weren't sure what we would be able to see or participate in. The physical barrier, the military presence and the crazy amount of police officers felt very intrusive at first, and while a part of that doesn't go away the overall feel in town was quite different. The OPP were extremely friendly, chatting with people, discussing everything from our community to where they were from. It was a relaxed friendly vibe that was created.

The community doors were open, prayer vigils in churches, art displays in the town hall and the library, the store fronts had displays, the sidewalks sent messages of love and peace. On either side of the road you get a free hug that was being offered. There was lots to just sit back and watch. The media alone was pretty cool to observe. Cameras, videographers, network trucks everywhere. At one point a car was over heating, letting off a ton of smoke and an awful smell. The media bolted in that direction, hopeful I am sure for something a little more dramatic.

There was a lot of talk around town. People discussed the waste of money spent on the conference, the change it could have made in the world if spent differently. Big issues were on the corner, literally. I talked with one couple about maternal health and where it might go in the discussions between the world leaders. Another person feared the consequences of the oil spill and the lack of urgency from world leaders to DO something. There wasn't much faith in the talks producing results.

Now that the G8 has moved to the G20 in Toronto, the wall is coming down, the helicopters have stopped and the amount of blue around town is not nearly so great, I feel different. There was a lot of talk originally about showcasing our community and the beautiful lakes and nature we live among. With a fake lake set up in a media centre miles away, sadly, there was no need to do this. I do think, we showcased our community to itself. I feel as though this town got to see a little bit more of each other, see the talent and beauty it has to offer EACH OTHER. That we moved a few steps closer, we met more neighbours, opened up a bit more to being part of the larger. That has been a great thing.