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Impact

Writer's picture: Angela SanfordAngela Sanford

by Angela Sanford


I recently listened to someone sharing the story of the Halifax Explosion of December 6, 1917, with a group of young children. The discussion centered on the importance of kindness to one’s neighbors—an idea that extends to everyone on Earth. The reflection highlighted Boston’s compassionate response to Nova Scotia during our time of need after the explosion. To honor their gesture, Nova Scotia has gifted a Christmas tree to Boston each year since—a tradition that serves as a living symbol of gratitude and goodwill.

     As I listened to the reflection, I was reminded of my late Aunt Iva’s diaries. She wrote in her diary daily, and I was fortunate enough to sit with her in her living room during my youth, listening to her share stories from those pages. One of those stories was about the day of the Halifax Explosion and how she, and others, could feel its impact all the way in Noel—over 100 kilometers away.

     While the reflection shared with the children was about kindness, it had a deeper theme: interconnectedness. Everything we do has far-reaching effects, whether we’re aware of them or not. Even small actions can lead to larger consequences, a phenomenon often referred to as the butterfly effect. Similarly, the principle of Seven Generations reminds us that the choices we make today will ripple through and affect future generations.

     The Halifax Explosion is an unmistakable example of this interconnectedness. Its effects have been felt for over a century, from shaping communities to establishing traditions like the annual tree-gifting. It even reached homes like Aunt Iva’s in Noel, a detail I might never have considered if not for her enjoying time with her as she shared excerpts from her diary.

     Reflecting on this, I’m reminded of Mitch Albom’s The Five People You Meet in Heaven. In his book (and its subsequent film), Albom tells the story of a man’s afterlife, where five individuals—some familiar, others not—explain how their lives were intertwined with his. It’s a poignant reminder of how small our world is and how deeply connected we all are, often in ways we may never fully realize.

     I often think about how my choices have impacted those close to me. But beyond my immediate circle, there may be countless ways my actions have touched others, unknowingly. Perhaps, like Albom’s protagonist, I’ll one day have the opportunity to see the full tapestry of connections in my life. While there are decisions I’ve made that I wish I could change, they remain part of my story. All I can do is learn from them.

     Similarly, the Halifax Explosion is an event that cannot be undone, yet it continues to teach us important lessons about resilience, compassion, and the enduring power of human connection.

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