Finding hidden gems during COVID

Johanna Vandorn | Mar 10, 2021

During some organizing of old files the other day, I came across a tattered notebook in which my father had spent hundreds of hours writing, in a very artistic hand, his thoughts on the economy, social justice and other matters he felt strongly about.

I have no personal recollection of him ever expressing his opinions, as these were adult matters and not for children. I do remember him at his desk writing – letters to family, letters to the editor of the London Free Press, notes to his union members, notes for the notebook.

What a treat it was to hold his handwriting in my hands. He passed away more than 30 years ago, but holding those pages and trying to understand the world through his thoughts was so moving. I urge anyone who still knows the power of the hand-written word to write!

And if you receive a card or letter from a loved one – save it! The “SMILE” postcards we received in the mail recently may speak to an older generation, but it may be your smile in a few years, holding a card or letter you received.

This is the dedication:

“In appreciation for the unselfish sacrifices the Canadian soldiers did give in the liberation of my country during the war 1939 -1945.

That we may appreciate Freedom, Justice and Peace which only can grow as

Truth and Faith in ourselves and in our Democratic system are practiced in a relationship of cooperation between Labour, Management and Government.

That we may have the goodwill and the wisdom to carry it to a real success to the benefits of future generations.” Adrian Vandorn (1975)

Johanna Vandorn