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For generations, many of us have been taught that crying is a sign of weakness. Phrases like "toughen up," "big boys don't cry," or "stop being so emotional" have become deeply ingrained in our culture. As a result, countless people suppress their emotions, believing that tears should be hidden rather than expressed.

The truth is very different.

Crying is one of the most natural and healthiest responses the human body has. Far from being a sign of weakness, shedding tears is a built-in mechanism that helps regulate our nervous system, release stress, and support both our physical and emotional well-being. Sometimes, allowing ourselves to cry is exactly what our bodies need to begin healing.

Not all tears are created equal.

Sometimes our eyes water because of smoke, dust, allergies, or even while chopping onions. These reflex tears help flush away irritants and protect our eyes from harm. Our bodies also produce basal tears throughout the day to keep our eyes lubricated, healthy, and free from infection. Physical pain and even extreme exhaustion can also trigger tears as the body responds to overwhelming stress.

Most of us, however, are familiar with emotional tears.

Grief, loss, disappointment, stress, frustration, fear, and burnout can all overwhelm our nervous system. Rather than being a sign that we are "falling apart," crying often represents our body's way of releasing emotional pressure before it becomes too much to carry.

The benefits go far beyond simply "feeling better."

When we cry, our parasympathetic nervous system—the part responsible for rest and recovery—is activated. Our heart rate begins to slow, our breathing gradually settles, and our bodies shift away from the "fight or flight" response into a calmer, more restorative state.

Prolonged crying also releases oxytocin and endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. These hormones not only help dull physical pain but also soften emotional suffering, bringing a sense of comfort during moments of intense grief or stress. Emotional tears are also believed to help remove excess stress hormones such as cortisol, allowing the body to recover after periods of prolonged emotional strain.

Even our eyes benefit. Tears contain lysozyme, a naturally occurring enzyme with antimicrobial properties that helps fight bacteria and protect against infection, while continuous tear production keeps our vision clear by preventing our eyes from drying out.

Crying also plays an important role in our mental health.

After experiencing overwhelming emotions—whether sadness, fear, frustration, or even overwhelming joy—crying helps the brain restore emotional balance. Many people notice that once the tears have passed, they feel calmer, lighter, and better able to think clearly. The physical release often leaves the body ready for rest, explaining why many people sleep more peacefully after a good cry.

Suppressing emotions may seem like strength, but over time it can have the opposite effect. Continually bottling up difficult feelings has been linked to increased stress and may contribute to problems such as high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, and emotional burnout. Allowing ourselves to express healthy emotions can be an important part of maintaining both mental and physical health.

Interestingly, tears are not reserved only for sadness.

Many people cry during life's happiest moments. Weddings, the birth of a child, achieving a lifelong goal, receiving wonderful news, or witnessing an extraordinary act of kindness can all bring tears to our eyes. Our brains often respond to overwhelming joy in much the same way they respond to overwhelming sorrow because both represent powerful emotional experiences.

There are also times when crying may be influenced by changes within the body itself. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or premenstrual syndrome can increase emotional sensitivity. Persistent or unexplained crying may also be associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or certain neurological disorders. If crying becomes frequent, uncontrollable, or begins interfering with daily life, it is important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

From the very beginning of life, crying has served an important purpose. A baby's cry is its first form of communication, signalling hunger, discomfort, fear, or the need for comfort. As adults, our tears continue to communicate what words sometimes cannot. They silently tell others that we are hurting, invite empathy, and often strengthen the bonds between family members, friends, and communities. Sometimes the simple act of allowing ourselves to be vulnerable opens the door for the support we need most.

Perhaps one of the greatest misconceptions about crying is that it represents weakness.

In reality, it often takes far more courage to acknowledge our emotions than to hide them. Crying reminds us that we care deeply, that we have loved, that we have experienced loss, and that we remain fully human.

So, if you find yourself crying today, don't apologise for it.

Allow yourself the space to feel.

Your tears are not a sign that you are weak.

They are often a sign that your mind, body, and heart are doing exactly what they were designed to do.

Sometimes healing doesn't begin when the tears stop.

Sometimes healing begins because they were finally allowed to fall.

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Alberta's Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Tara Sawyer, is encouraging Albertans to celebrate Food Day Canada by recognizing the farmers, ranchers, processors and food producers who help feed families across the province and around the world.

Observed annually on Aug. 1, Food Day Canada celebrates Canadian cuisine while highlighting the people and industries that produce the country's food. The day also encourages Canadians to support local agriculture by purchasing homegrown products, visiting farmers' markets and dining at local restaurants.

In a statement marking the occasion, Sawyer said agriculture remains at the heart of Alberta's economy and identity, noting that the province plays a leading role in Canada's food industry.

Alberta is Canada's largest producer of beef, honey and processed potatoes, while also ranking second nationally in the production of canola and wheat. The province is also a major producer and exporter of oats, barley and pork, supplying high-quality ingredients to both domestic and international markets.

Alberta's beef has earned worldwide recognition for its quality, while the province's grains contribute to the production of breads, pasta, craft beers and award-winning whiskies enjoyed across Canada and abroad.

Sawyer said Alberta's agricultural sector not only provides nutritious food but also supports thousands of jobs, strengthens rural communities and serves as a major economic driver for the province.

To celebrate Food Day Canada, Albertans are encouraged to explore locally produced foods, shop at farmers' markets and support restaurants that feature Alberta and Canadian ingredients.

The minister said sharing meals made with locally produced food is a meaningful way to recognize the hard work and dedication of the people who grow, raise and prepare the food that reaches tables every day.

For more information about Food Day Canada, visit their website at www.fooddaycanada.ca.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

Friends and family of Sonny Rajoo, a well-known journalist and former local politician from Two Hills, gathered in Port Shepstone, South Africa, for a Celebration of Life service, on July 25, giving those from his hometown the opportunity to share their memories, express their love, and honour a man whose kindness and generosity touched lives across the globe.

Organized by Sonny's South African family and spearheaded by his eldest brother, Joe Raju, the gathering was a fitting tribute to a man who meant so much to so many. With the support of his brothers Larry and Johnny, his nephews Jeremy, Eugene, and Andre, along with many other family members and friends, the celebration beautifully reflected the man behind the titles and accomplishments. It was a heartfelt reminder that Sonny's greatest legacy was not found in public office or journalism, but in the relationships he built and the lives he enriched.

The service is available to watch on YouTube using the link below.

www.youtube.com/live/BcDLOuSb5N0?si=CRPMPi83akGtBBF1

(For the best viewing experience, we recommend watching on a mobile device.)

A Personal Note

Niri asked me to write this article a week ago. True to form, I'm only getting to it today.

From the bottom of our hearts, we simply cannot express the depth of gratitude we feel for everyone who organized this beautiful celebration. As Niri and I have said to each other several times, "We just showed up." That truly was the extent of our involvement. Everything else was made possible through the love, dedication, and hard work of our family.

The service gave us the opportunity to celebrate a man who meant so much to so many people. While Niri and I had the privilege of calling him Dad, we always knew his love was never reserved for just his children and grandchildren. It extended to his brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbours, lifelong friends, and the countless people he met throughout his journey.

To everyone who helped make the day possible, whether your contribution was large or small, visible or behind the scenes, please know that we are deeply grateful. Your humility may prevent you from seeking recognition, but we want you to know that your kindness did not go unnoticed. We pray that God richly blesses each and every one of you.

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Albertans are being invited to come together on Sunday, Aug. 30, to celebrate Alberta Day with free, family-friendly events in Edmonton and Calgary, as communities across the province mark the occasion with festivities highlighting Alberta's history, culture and community spirit.

Alberta Day commemorates the province joining Confederation on Sept. 1, 1905, offering residents an opportunity to celebrate the people, places and traditions that have helped shape Alberta while recognizing the province's contributions to Canada.

The Government of Alberta is supporting celebrations in 69 municipalities between Aug. 28 and Sept. 1, with flagship events taking place at the Alberta Legislature Grounds in Edmonton and Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary.

Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and continue throughout the day, featuring live entertainment, local vendors, family activities and cultural experiences designed to showcase Alberta's heritage and creativity. Visitors attending the Edmonton celebration will also be treated to a complimentary barbecue at the Legislature Grounds.

Live music will be a major attraction, with Alberta country artist Jake Mathews headlining the Edmonton celebration and award-winning singer-songwriter Kyle McKearney taking the stage in Calgary. Both events will conclude at 9 p.m. with a drone show combining music, light and technology to tell Alberta's story.

Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women Tanya Fir said Alberta Day provides an opportunity for residents to celebrate the province they call home while recognizing its history, culture and contributions to a united Canada.

Whether families are lifelong Albertans or newcomers to the province, organizers say Alberta Day is intended to bring people together to celebrate local talent, connect with neighbours and appreciate the diverse cultures and traditions that make Alberta unique.

Alberta Day was first officially celebrated in 2022, and a complete list of participating communities is available through the Government of Alberta.

For more information about Alberta Day, visit the Government of Alberta website at www.alberta.ca/alberta-day-2026.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

Many years ago, I had the genuine pleasure of working with one of the hardest-working farmers in the Two Hills area, Bob Bachelet. I always called him "Uncle Bob" because he and my dad were such close friends that they referred to each other as brothers. Before long, he felt like family to me too.

In the summer of 2014, I had just returned home after a stay in the St. Paul hospital. One afternoon, I was sitting on the couch watching television when I heard a knock at the door.

It was Uncle Bob.

"Hey there, young feller!" he said in his familiar, fatherly voice. "Whatcha doing?"

"Nothing much, Uncle Bob. Just relaxing," I replied with a smile.

"How come you're not at work?"

"I don't have a job at the moment," I admitted, a little embarrassed.

He took off his hat, scratched his head for a moment and said, "You know, I could use a hand on the farm if you'd be up to it."

"I'd love to," I answered without hesitation.

I had always been fascinated by farming. Growing up in town, I had absolutely no experience with it, but there was something remarkable about the idea of working the land that had always appealed to me.

"Great," he said. "Meet me at my place at eight sharp."

The next morning, I woke up eager for my first day. After feeding my dog, Nero, and chugging down a quick cup of coffee, I headed out. Since Uncle Bob lived just down the road, I decided to walk. It wasn't far, and the quiet country road made for a beautiful start to the day.

I arrived a few minutes before eight and knocked on the door.

"Come on in there, young feller. Have a seat. You drink coffee?"

He was already standing at the stove making breakfast.

"Actually, Uncle Bob, I'm ready to get to work if you've got something for me to start on," I said, trying to politely decline despite the mouth-watering smell of bacon filling the kitchen.

"Nonsense," he replied, pouring me a cup of coffee. "We're gonna have breakfast first. Then we can get to it."

Looking back, I'm glad I didn't argue.

After a hearty breakfast, we headed outside to begin the day's work. I have always tried to stay in reasonably good shape—well, perhaps "reasonably" is doing a lot of heavy lifting—but I quickly discovered I was no match for Uncle Bob. He tossed hay bales around as though they were made of paper while I struggled to keep up.

By lunchtime, I was completely worn out.

Back in the house, another hot, delicious meal was waiting. We'd sit together, eat, chat for a while, and then head back outside for the afternoon's work. Every day followed much the same rhythm: a hearty breakfast, honest work, a wonderful lunch, and countless conversations.

Working alongside a lifelong farmer was an education in itself. Like a sponge, I soaked up everything he taught me—from planting a productive garden to the gravity-flow irrigation system he had built and perfected over the years.

When the season finally came to an end, he thanked me for my help and said that if he ever needed anything, he'd give me a call. He also reminded me that if I ever needed a hand, I should never hesitate to ask.

Not long afterwards, Uncle Bob stopped by with another project.

"I've got something I'd like your help with."

Naturally, I jumped at the chance.

His request, however, caught me completely off guard.

He wanted me to help him gather and prepare the lumber for his coffin.

At the time, I remember thinking it was an unusual request, but I never questioned him. He explained that he wanted to be able to say he had built his own coffin using wood from his own land. He wasn't expecting to pass away anytime soon. He simply wanted to do it himself.

Then he looked at me and said something I have never forgotten.

"Jared, you speak at my funeral and tell people I did that."

My first thought was, Please don't make me speak in public.

What I actually said was, "What would I say?"

He grinned.

"Make something up... you're a good writer."

I remember silently wondering, Am I?

As it turned out, Uncle Bob saw something in me long before I saw it in myself.

Years later, I would decide to take writing seriously. Looking back now, I can't help but smile at the confidence he had in me before I ever had it in myself.

Sadly, I never did get to fulfil that request.

To the Bachelet family, I simply want to say thank you for sharing Uncle Bob with our community. He was one of the kindest, hardest-working and most genuine people I have ever known. His warm smile, gentle humour and fatherly voice remain among my fondest memories.

And to Uncle Bob...

Thank you.

Thank you for the breakfasts, the conversations, the lessons in the garden, the long days of honest work, the Lions Club bingos, and for treating a town kid like he belonged on the farm.

One day, when we meet again, I hope you'll know that although I never got to speak at your funeral, I finally kept my promise by telling your story.

Some requests may remain unfinished.

But some promises simply take a little longer to keep.

(Image generated using AI)

Students planning to attend post-secondary school this fall will soon have access to more than $107 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries as Alberta Student Aid opens applications for the 2026-27 academic year on Aug. 4.

The funding is designed to help reduce the financial burden of higher education by providing non-repayable assistance to students pursuing college, university and other post-secondary programs across the province.

According to the Government of Alberta, the scholarships, awards and bursaries will support approximately 50,400 students during the upcoming academic year. The province is also making it easier to access financial assistance by moving 20 scholarships and awards to an online application process.

Minister of Advanced Education Myles McDougall said the investment is aimed at helping more Albertans pursue education while strengthening the province's workforce.

"Investing in students is an investment in Alberta's future. Scholarships, awards and bursaries help reduce financial barriers, recognize student achievement and ensure more Albertans can access the education and training they need to succeed."

One of the most significant changes this year is the expansion of the New Beginnings Bursary, which supports low-income learners entering high-demand post-secondary programs. The bursary will now assist 2,400 students, more than doubling last year's total of 1,000 recipients.

Funding for the program has also increased by $7 million, bringing its total allocation to $12 million for the 2026-27 school year.

The province continues to support academic excellence through its Heritage Scholarships, including the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding high school achievement. During the 2025-26 academic year, the scholarship provided nearly $50 million in funding to more than 24,000 students.

Heritage Fund Opportunities Corporation Chair Joe Lougheed said the scholarships continue to provide lasting benefits for Alberta students.

"By supporting student achievement and educational excellence, these scholarships help ensure the scholarship endowment continues to create opportunities and build a prosperous future for our province."

While scholarships, awards, bursaries and grants do not have to be repaid, student loans remain available as a separate form of financial assistance and must be repaid after studies are completed.

Applications for student loans and grants opened on June 3, and students are encouraged to apply at least 60 days before their program begins. Scholarship, award and bursary applications open Aug. 4 through Alberta Student Aid.

Key Highlights

• More than $107 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries available for 2026-27.
• Funding expected to support approximately 50,400 Alberta students.
• Applications for 20 scholarships and awards will be available through a new online application process.
• New Beginnings Bursary expands to support 2,400 students, up from 1,000 last year.
• Bursary funding increases to $12 million.
• More than $1 billion in total student aid is available this year.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

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The Alberta and federal governments have signed a major infrastructure agreement aimed at supporting new housing construction by investing in water and wastewater systems across the province.

The partnership will provide more than $510 million in federal funding over the next eight years through the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF). Alberta has also committed to contributing at least one-third of eligible municipal project costs, unlocking up to $428 million in additional provincial funding.

Together, the agreement represents a potential investment of more than $938 million in housing-supporting infrastructure.

Premier Danielle Smith said reliable infrastructure is essential for growing communities.

"Strong communities start with the infrastructure to support them. By investing in the water and wastewater systems communities rely on, we're doing what it takes to build more housing, attract new investment and keep pace with Alberta's growth," she said.

Prime Minister Mark Carney described the agreement as an example of cooperation between the two levels of government.

"Alberta has an ambitious plan to scale up homebuilding and our government is backing it. We're partners in this mission, working in the true spirit of cooperative federalism," Carney said. "We are building a stronger Alberta and a stronger Canada for all."

Under the agreement, Alberta will retain responsibility for identifying and prioritizing projects, allowing the province to align investments with regional needs while protecting provincial jurisdiction over infrastructure planning.

The funding will help municipalities, rural communities and Indigenous communities expand critical water and wastewater infrastructure needed to support new residential development and economic growth. Twenty per cent of the available funding has been set aside specifically for projects in rural and Indigenous communities.

Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen said provincial oversight will ensure projects are selected where they are needed most.

"With provincial oversight of project selection, we will be able to select projects that will meet regional needs and support growing Alberta communities," he said.

The announcement comes as Alberta continues to experience rapid population growth. More than 600,000 people have moved to the province over the past five years, increasing demand for both market and affordable housing while placing additional pressure on public infrastructure.

Scott Fash, chief executive officer of the BILD Alberta Association, welcomed the investment, saying strong collaboration between industry and government will help deliver the infrastructure needed to support new neighbourhoods and improve housing affordability.

The province's Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors is now preparing its first list of infrastructure projects for submission to the federal government by November 30.

The Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund supports investments in water, wastewater, stormwater and solid-waste infrastructure that enable new housing development. Eligible applicants include municipalities, Indigenous communities, public-sector organizations and certain private-sector partners working with public entities.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

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Albertans will soon have more options to detect serious illnesses earlier after the provincial government announced expanded access to preventative diagnostic screening.

Beginning July 31, residents will be able to purchase certain diagnostic imaging tests—including MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays and ultrasounds—without first obtaining a referral from a physician, provided the services are offered through participating private clinics.

The Alberta government says the initiative is designed to give people greater control over their health while improving opportunities for early cancer detection.

Importantly, the province emphasized that the new program is intended to complement—not replace—the publicly funded health-care system. Medically necessary diagnostic imaging ordered by physicians or nurse practitioners will continue to be publicly funded and prioritized according to clinical need.

Under the new policy, patients who independently choose preventative screening and subsequently receive a new cancer diagnosis may apply for reimbursement of the cost of their screening test at the publicly funded rate. Claims can be submitted for up to one year following the diagnosis.

Premier Danielle Smith described prevention as a key component of improving health outcomes.

"Better health care starts with prevention," Smith said, noting Alberta is the first province in Canada to introduce expanded access to preventative testing alongside reimbursement for patients whose screenings lead to a cancer diagnosis.

According to the province, cancer remains the leading cause of death in Alberta, with approximately one in two Albertans expected to develop the disease during their lifetime. Health officials believe earlier detection can improve treatment outcomes by identifying cancers before symptoms become severe.

Patients whose preventative screenings identify or suggest cancer will be referred to Cancer Care Alberta for follow-up testing, diagnosis and treatment through the public health system.

The government also noted that test results from participating clinics will be integrated into Alberta's electronic health record system, allowing patients and their health-care providers to access the same information while reducing unnecessary duplicate testing.

Officials say the initiative may also encourage further investment in diagnostic equipment and clinic capacity across Alberta, helping expand access to screening services over time.

Alongside the new preventative testing program, Alberta continues to invest in cancer care, including funding for expanded diagnostic imaging, enhanced screening programs, a new oncofertility program and additional support for oncologists, cancer surgeries and facility upgrades.

The rollout of preventative screening services will begin on July 31, with participating clinics expected to introduce services gradually over the coming weeks.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

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When life throws us unexpected challenges, it's easy for our routines to fall apart. Whether we're dealing with loss, stress, illness, or simply feeling overwhelmed, everyday habits are often the first things to disappear.

Ironically, those same routines are often what help us find solid ground again.

A routine doesn't have to be rigid or complicated. It can be as simple as waking up at the same time each morning, making your bed, taking a short walk, exercising, reading a few pages of a book, or spending a few quiet moments in prayer or meditation. These small actions create a sense of stability when everything else feels uncertain.

Research has shown that regular routines can reduce stress, improve sleep, increase productivity, and support better mental health. They also reduce the number of decisions we have to make each day, leaving more mental energy for the things that truly matter.

It's also important to remember that routines aren't about perfection. Missing a workout, sleeping in, or having an unproductive day doesn't erase the progress you've made. Mental wellness isn't built by never stumbling—it's built by choosing to begin again.

One helpful approach is to focus on just three daily habits:

• Move your body, even if only for 15 minutes.
• Connect with another person through a conversation, phone call, or message.
• Spend a few quiet moments reflecting, praying, or simply appreciating something positive from your day.

These simple practices may seem small, but over weeks and months they can have a powerful impact on our emotional well-being.

Life will always have seasons of uncertainty, but healthy routines remind us that even when we cannot control everything happening around us, we can still choose how we care for ourselves.

Sometimes healing doesn't come through dramatic breakthroughs.

Sometimes it begins by simply showing up today.

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Canadians are being invited to have their say on the future of Canada’s official languages as the federal government launches the 2026 Cross-Canada Official Languages Consultations.

The consultations officially began on June 22, 2026, and will continue until November. The process is intended to gather perspectives from Canadians, official language minority communities, advocacy organizations, provincial and territorial representatives, federal institutions and organizations, and other stakeholders across the country.

The consultations will help inform the development of a new federal strategy on official languages. The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister responsible for Official Languages, has been tasked with developing the strategy, which will identify the federal government’s key priorities for official languages in the years ahead.

According to the Government of Canada, the new strategy will focus on moving toward substantive equality between Canada’s official languages while supporting the vitality of official language minority communities and promoting both English and French.

The government has also identified the protection of French across the country, including in Quebec, as an important part of its official languages work. The consultations will also examine how official languages can continue to contribute to Canada’s identity and support efforts both nationally and internationally.

“The government wishes to renew its action in official languages in order to reflect and highlight the strengths of our communities’ rich diversity and the exceptional contribution of our official languages to the identity and future of our country,” the government said.

Canadians Can Participate Online

The online questionnaire is open to all Canadians and will remain available until November 2026.

Canadians can also submit a brief, document or email sharing their perspectives on official languages to the consultation team.

The government is encouraging Canadians to participate and help shape the priorities that will guide Canada’s next official languages strategy.

Consultations Taking Place Across Canada

In-person sessions for community partners and stakeholders will be held across all provinces and territories as part of a cross-Canada tour. Locations and dates will be announced as they become available.

Thematic, sectoral and virtual sessions will also be held for community partners and stakeholders through November. Information about upcoming themes and dates will be posted as details are confirmed.

Formal consultations with provincial and territorial governments are planned between June and September 2026. Dialogue sessions and bilateral meetings will also take place with organizations including the Ministers’ Council on the Canadian Francophonie, the Intergovernmental Network on the Canadian Francophonie and the Council of Ministers of Education.

The 2026 Cross-Canada Official Languages Consultations provide Canadians with an opportunity to contribute to the discussion about the future of English and French in Canada and the role official languages will play in the country’s future.

The Government of Canada says the consultation process will help ensure the next official languages strategy reflects the diversity, strengths and contributions of communities across the country.

To watch the Video — Launch of the 2026 Cross-Canada Official Languages Consultations, visit the following link www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/corporate/public-consultations/official-languages-consultations-2026/video.html.

(Source: Government of Canada)