MP Life People Power

Sandy Bolton MP Independent Member for Noosa

AS AN MP I HAVE THE BEST JOB! WHERE ELSE IN ONE DAY DO YOU GET TO BE INSPIRED, HUMBLED, ENERGISED, EXCITED, AS WELL SEE FIRST-HAND THE FABULOUS WORK BEING DONE AT A GRASSROOTS LEVEL?

Yes, there are difficult parts, and frustrations where some challenges we face emanate from legislation that has become redundant, policies that create greater problems than they were meant to resolve, and complex bills that are just that… complex! Regardless of these ‘Parli’ challenges, what an incredible space, and place we live in.

Following recent International Women’s Day events, it has highlighted the importance of bringing forward conversations that need to be had, without anger or fear. Victims of violence, road trauma and abuse are all supported by programs developed by passionate people who want to make a difference. Looking after our natural spaces, working with returned servicemen and women impacted by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Right here in our beautiful home, we have so many people that every day, donate their time and expertise to help those in need. Real people doing powerful deeds.

When I look at the overwhelming good all around us, it is a reminder that the ‘bad’ is a tiny proportion of all the ‘good’ that is happening in our community. If you don’t have time to ‘smell the roses’ at least spend less time thinking about what is wrong in the world and start celebrating what is right. That is the greatest honour we can give to all those at the front line who every day are working to reduce the ‘bad’.

When visiting our local schools and aged care homes, I am forever uplifted by the vibrancy and curiosity of our school children and the calm wisdom of our elderly. The comradeship in abundance at sporting clubs, fierce competition of ideas and ideals at roundtables (and square?!) and the joy of events celebrating our newest Australians, ventures and achievements is gold. Volunteerism and community spirit is at the heart of this power.

The power of people – responsible, incredible, dynamic and caring, those with empathy and a capacity to listen, not judge - converse not traverse, unite not divide. This is a power that ultimately will diminish our challenges, as finding resolutions and solutions cannot come from a place of blame or anger. They come from people accepting the power they have, taking responsibility for that power, and using it for good. Whether that be through choices as a consumer (Buy Aussie!) as a resident (get involved) and showing consideration for others (it’s okay to ‘give way’). Just imagine the world we could create if we all shared space, debated and related respectfully?

Whether a visitor to our magical home, or you are blessed to be living here, enjoy the gifts that autumn brings. The roses may not be out, however take a lazy jaunt, smell the air, and switch off the phone. For just an hour, forget social media, television, and the overflowing inbox. Grab your favourite person or ‘read’, toss off your shoes, and immerse in the moment. Make eye contact on the street, send a smile, and in true Noosa style, you will get one flying back!

The power of people… where everything and anything is possible. Until next time

Sandy