It’s nice to know public announcements are taking place stating that the target date of de-encampment will take place by the end of April (finally). We have been told for 10 months now to be patient, to pressure this one or pressure that one and now we’re told the stars are aligning and everyone is working together. Hard not to be a bit cynical when you see your neighbours stressed and not believing what they’re told. It’s also not very reassuring when things happen like what was presented on Global news. Friday: not just any park fire right? It’s crazy when you read about things happening right in your hood and you missed all the action. A moment in time when you were elsewhere.

There will also be a moment in time when park occupation is a thing of the past. Many many many of us look forward to that day. As we wait for that day the piece flags continue to go up on the fence and the names of Community members become the new message. Honouring those trying to make a difference, those who have lived here for many years, those who are truly a part of the hood.

Today, while mending the fence due to the crazy winds this weekend that played havoc wtih the flags, I experienced another moment. Koko often accompanies me to the fence and patiently waits, or barks at other dogs should one come along, when a lovely thing happened. A guy came walking down the sidewalk on our side (not the park side ) of the fence and stopped to take things in. He might have been homeless but I really don’t know. He looked at me and said “thank you for taking care of the kites” and touched his heart.

This was a moment that made my day.