It’s a sad day for Canadians as we say good-bye to NDP leader Jack Layton. He meant a lot to many, myself included. It’s rare to see a politician that cares so deeply and works so hard for the country they serve. I doubt that we will ever see someone as dedicated and passionate about the greater good of Canadian citizens than Jack Layton in our lifetimes. We’re lucky to have had him as long as we did. I think Bob Rae pretty much sums up how many of us are feeling, “Sometimes the world has a way of breaking your heart. I think a lot of us feel that way today”

If you want to express your condolences there’s a book at the legislature building until August 29 as well as an online version here.

Lastly a quote from Jack’s letter to Canadians “My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.”

You will be missed.