Editor:
Why did we choose to live in Canmore? Living here is a choice. Canmore offers the ultimate paradise for people who love nature, outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle. I once heard Canmore referred to as the ‘Fountain of Youth’.
The day I moved to Canmore in 2007, I saw a man in his 70s running up to the Nordic Centre with cross-country skis on his back. I thought to myself, this town rocks!
I escaped the big city along with polluted air, two-hour intercity commutes, impatient drivers, honking horns, talking on cellphones, always in a hurry and filling up the days only to wake up and do it all over again. Ahhh, now I breath in the clean, crisp mountain air as I sip my delicious coffee taking in the view.
Living in downtown Canmore is wonderful: rarely have to start the car, within biking or walking distance of everything. Strolling down Main Street only to run into many familiar, smiling faces. There is a true connection here. This connection to nature brings peace and balance to our lives.
Our local newspapers speak of important issues concerning the land and life around us. Not too often do we read of local violence, definitely not to the scale that larger metropolises may read in their papers. No riots here over a lost hockey game!
Not always happy news to read though, especially when we learn of yet another bear death or about the ‘bunny cull’ plan this fall. In talking with people about it, the news has shocked many locals.
Why is there a disconnect between community and nature? We as humans, living within the corridor, present far more food attractants for wildlife (such as coyotes and bears) than the actual bunnies. Some have said ‘they are not suppose to be here’, ‘they are eating my garden’.
I hear the noise of late night bar walkers who are way more of an annoyance than the bunnies. This is not our town. We do not own it. We live in it. Sharing… hmm, a funny concept.
Careful relocation is a possibility, but to terminate life is harm done. Belittling the bunnies and other life forms encourages violence, ego and separateness – leaving no room for compassion. Can’t we find a way to accept them?
Instead of making a fist at life, maybe we can try opening our hand and offering love – maybe see what the bunnies have to teach us.
Tracy Jacobson,
Canmore
