We are in Rome, in the last few days of the Jubilee Year of Mercy. Despite having visited this glorious city several times, everything feels new again, and the experience is as exciting as it was the very first time we visited.

We brought along our eldest nephew, Sean, this time, and I think he is enjoying himself (at least he says he is!). Between the morning cappuccini and pastries, the panini, the pizza, and ALL of Rome’s thousands of years of history, I think we might be giving Sean culture-induced brain-freeze. However—he is a trooper, never complains, and is always ready for the next adventure.

I had been looking forward to November 8, because I was so, SO ready to never hear the name “Trump” ever again. I had even worried that I might disgrace myself crying tears of joy in front of D and Sean that the U.S had not only FINALLY elected a female president, but that she also happened to be brilliant, a hard-worker, a true feminist, and an example to all little girls the world over.

I am still in shock over what happened, and I can say truthfully that the election has greatly saddened me. Just when I was ready to believe that the world is actually full of goodness and light and love and hope, I see it is not.

And on this Remembrance Day, while I am far from home, and despite the overwhelming sadness and fear brought on by Tuesday’s election results, I will remember to be thankful for those whose contributions and sacrifices made my beloved Canada a safe and welcoming home for all of us.