While I get back from walking my dog, I have realized how much the world has changed.
Many years back, I could ride my bike with no extra speeds from 156 Street in Surrey to New Westminster – over the bridge and then back home up the big hill. It was a great day.
Parents never worried. We did this all summer – made trips all over the Valley.
Then as my daughter grew up, she had the freedom, too. The only thing changed was that we wanted a plan of her day.
She rode 14 miles to work and back all summer to her job. We didn’t worry.
Now we have to walk little ones to schools and back each day.
Parents are afraid to give children freedom to find out about life. I live five blocks from Mill Lake, two blocks from Oriole Park, and never see nine- to 12-year-olds being brave and going to the park.
I know they aren’t to go into water at Mill Lake, but those three generations I speak of in the past would have had to test the water. No more daredevils.
Drugs have taken over that area, and we’re afraid to say good morning to a stranger.
I would like the families from near and far to take their children’s hands and take a walk to show them the beauty of our land.
For those who are new, please excuse us, for we have forgotten what a free and lovely land we live in.
Let your child feel the wind in his or her face.
It’s wonderful and gives them many lovely memories.
Joanne Roe
