To be complex does not mean to be fragmented. This is the paradox and the genius of our Canadian civilization.

Each of us is carving a stone, erecting a column, or cutting a piece of stained glass in the construction of something much bigger than ourselves.

As I go across the country and privately visit women's shelters and counselling centres, I am appalled that the most vulnerable people in our society are still women.

To be complex does not mean to be fragmented. This is the paradox and the genius of our Canadian civilization.

Sometimes we read or hear too much news that makes us fearful or suspicious of others. We can forget that most of the people that we know, or at least encounter regularly, are decent and friendly.

Our horizon is the creation of a noble society to which, like the medieval builder of those glorious cathedrals, you will have added your conception, your artful piece of stone.

No one is so poor that they cannot give, and no one is so rich that they cannot receive.