See You At The Rink

Seven or eight months ago “hope to see you at the rink” was a common phrase.

It’s was as common as “take care” or saying hello and goodbye.

By mid March that all changed.

“Stay safe and take care took on a hole new meaning and “see you at rink” became a pipe dream.

The rink means so much to so many people for so many different reasons.

The rink is the stage for the game we all love.

The game that gave us so many childhood memories, dreams and aspirations.

Over the past 6 months we have all learned what matters most in our lives.

We have gained a new appreciation for essential workers and frontline medical staff.

We have all gained a deeper appreciation of our passions and what brings us joy and happiness.

Enter the game of hockey.

The sport of hockey has an unique way of connecting us all.

Going to the rink means something.

The thrill of the unknown, the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.

The sights and the sounds of the game offer each and everyone us something different.

Purpose, pride, togetherness, and a shared passion.

The essence of game and its stage may have been taken for granted, but that has all changed.

With the anticipation of the game’s return we now know the true impact it has had and continues to have in our lives, but we should never lose sight of what matters most, family, our health and safety.

A lot has happened in the last six months that reminds of what matters most.

We need to keep that as our top priority.

We need to be more accepting, more thoughtful, compassionate and caring now more than ever before.

The storm may have subsided, but it’s far from over.

The game we all love is about to return, the anticipation is all around us. Nonetheless, we can all learn from the values that the game of hockey and going to the rink have taught us over the years and apply all of those to our lives and experiences moving forward.

We can all be better teammates, better people, more accepting and compassionate.

Now more than ever we will have to play for each other and keep everyone safe and healthy.

We have a responsibility to continue to protect ourselves, the community and each other.

The rink is our classroom, the game is the ultimate lesson and test.

Our great game is set to return, let’s hope we can all pass the test.

See you at the rink.