Words Seaside Sue, Publisher & Founder
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been overwhelmed by the kindness so many of you have shown following the announcement that I’ve sold Seaside to my Editor-in-Chief, Allison. Your emails, conversations in the grocery store, hugs at community events and thoughtful messages have meant more than you know. Many of you have told me you’re sad to see the change, but equally happy knowing Seaside will remain locally owned and that Allison will continue the legacy we’ve built together over the past 15 years. I couldn’t ask for a better gift.
One message, in particular, stayed with me. A reader thanked me for sharing my personal editorials over the years and ended with four simple words: “Make Love, Not War.”
The more I thought about that phrase, the more I realized how relevant it feels today. We’re living in a time when it often seems easier to criticize than encourage, to judge rather than understand, and to focus on what divides us instead of what brings us together. Yet every day, I see something very different here in our community. I see neighbours helping neighbours, local businesses supporting one another, volunteers giving their time, and people choosing kindness simply because it’s the right thing to do. To me, Make Love, Not War is about the choices we make every day. It’s about leading with compassion, and remembering that every person we meet is carrying a story we may never know.
Thank you for reminding me why I’ve loved telling the stories of this community for so many years. While Allison has taken over as owner, you’ll still see me as Publisher of Seaside until the end of the year, and you’ll also find me continuing my community relations work at North Saanich Canadian Tire. So if you see me around town, please stop and say hello. I always enjoy the conversations, the stories and the connections that make this community so special. After all, love grows from one conversation to another.
Clothing provided and styled by Butik Naturals.
Photo Janis Jean
