(Phil here, with an update before I post this November, 2015 “counterpoint” column to this blog: in November the new Liberal government had yet to amend its plan to bring 25,000 refugees to the country by the end of 2015. The plan changed when it became apparent it couldn’t be done. Instead, an amended plan aimed for 10,000 by the end of the year, and a total of 25,000 by the end of February. In mid-February it still appeared that was going to happen.)

 A few months ago a friend of mine was visiting family in London, Ontario and, as she loves to do on such occasions, had taken her two grandchildren for a walk to a nearby park where there’s a playground.

She wasn’t the only one. A man was there with his several young children. And, as is the way with little ones who have not been spoiled by the prejudices of the adult world, the boys and girls began to play together.

My friend, who loves children and has an open, welcoming heart, included all the children in her enjoyment of the moment on that pleasant summer day. The father wanted to express his appreciation. Newly arrived in Canada, he spoke little English. But he managed to say, “I from Syria.” Continue reading →