Memories and ‘the things that last’ are made up from the experiences of an innocent childhood. Throughout your life a familiar sound, smell, touch or scene evokes deep feelings of wide eyed wonder and pure joy that is truly the legacy of a happy childhood.
It is those memories that frequently preserve us in times of struggle and strife and that often serve to inform our adult perspective and our way of being in the adult world.
In my life’s work I often spend time with youth and young adults whose childhood, for whatever reason, did not have many (if any) opportunities to revel in the purity of being a child, feeling: safe to be themselves; loved and cared for; exposed to the simple but powerful pleasures of community life. So for them the few memories of a happy childhood are precious.
I want to thank all the people who worked so hard to make this magical thing we call ‘Ladysmith Days’ come true.
You helped create an event where any family and their children were invited no matter their means or position in life, an event everyone could enjoy and be part of without having to worry about the cost – or anything at all, really – but having a good time.
Steve Arnett is a Ladysmith councilor and liaison on the Ladysmith Days Committee.