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Observer Article - Joyce - May 2005
Chief Seattle:
"Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread
within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things
are bound together -- all things connect. "
Joyce LaChance knew deeply about connectedness. All her life she collected
quirky objects which she delighted in sharing. She also drew strength from
eclectic pieces of inspirational writing, much of which based in the rich
resources of the natural world. She loved to share that, too.
Joyce attended the founding meeting of the Eastern Shore Forest Watch back
in 1998, driven by her enormous love and passion for nature. This passion
kept her central to the operation of Forest Watch for the rest of her life.
She cared deeply for her community, and for the land where she raised he
amazing family. Wherever she turned her wealth of creativity and deliberate
focused energy, we all benefitted.
Joyce saw the big picture and worked in myriad ways at affecting change.
She always had petition in her pocket, and when Joyce asked in her own
special way for a signature, many people signed. She constantly engaged
people in discussion, one on one, to explore the issues dear to her. Her
ability to reach out and make personal connections, whether door to door,
sitting at a table, or attending endless meetings, has contributed hugely to
the increased awareness and appreciation for our forests that is taking
place on the Shore today.
Finding ways to protect Ship Harbour Long Lake from clear cutting and
development was central to her activist work for the last six years. She had
a vision of an international environmental learning centre based on the
Eastern Shore. This vision will continue to inspire all of us at Forest
Watch. Joyce was also a long-time active member of the Trails Association,
giving steady, and committed care to the Musquodoboit Trail that she so
loved.
Joyce's sudden passing this past February marks a time to honour and
celebrate her life and work. In addition it gives us a time to cherish all
those who volunteer endless hours out of good will, and with a vision to
make positive change happen. Joyce had a name that begins with "joy." Joy
in life is part of her legacy to us, along with the strength, creativity,
and passion that filled her heart. With Joyce-energy to inspire us, we
renew our resolve to work as tirelessly as she did to create the better
world she envisioned.
With love, Kim
Chair, Eastern Shore Forest Watch
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