Walk A Mile In Her Shoes (A Peaceman In Pumps!)

I’ve always enjoyed sharing the very common expression, “Be The Change!” as it empowers others to become involved in learning how to be a positive influence in our communities.  There are so many problems in our world – environmental, social, political and economical – and there are so many ways that people can make a difference to ensure that others in need are able to access the assistance that they require to have a safe and healthy life.

One community organization that I like to support is the London’s Women’s Community House.  It really fills my heart with sadness when I hear stories about how women and children are abused – both physically and emotionally.  This feeling empowers me to join with others as we strive to bring awareness as well as the needed funding to the people and organizations that work so hard to assist those who need a fresh start.

For just over a decade, organizers from the LWCH has been holding an annual event that allows Londoners an opportunity to address this very serious concern in a fun way.  Instead of raising these concerns in a very serious forum, organizers have realized that smiles build stronger bridges, open more doors and get more people involved.

This annual event is called “Walk A Mile In Her Shoes” and this title can be taken in full context as male supporters for this organization are required to walk a full mile in red high heeled shoes! 


At this year’s event, I was surprised to learn that I had won a door prize!  Prize notifications are randomly inserted into the boxes containing the red high heels and when I went to get my pumps I found one such notification inside.  Yeah!!!

The event begins with a few inspirational speeches and the participants make a lot of noise when the London Police and Fire Department officers strut around in their shiny shoes.


Without much to-do, the walk begins!  First we ascend a large flight of stairs to get ourselves out to the downtown streets.  Many moms and young females enjoy showing their support for our support for such a great cause!!


I asked organizers for a second set of high heeled shoes for my son, Devon, but they didn’t have any that fit… so I dangled these large ones off his feet for a quick photo-op!  Organizers told me that they will make sure that a handful of smaller sized pumps are available for children participants, next year.


Hundreds of London fathers, brothers, boyfriends and families participate!  The local media has a lot of fun showcasing photos of our police, firemen and local politicians all unified for one important event!


Even dogs attend and participate to show that there is a need for our societies to act more respectfully and peacefully towards each other.


The one mile walk takes place in London’s downtown where it will attract the most attention.  A bright red firetruck leads the walk.


Local politicians usually follow right behind.  This year, we had London’s newest mayor, Matt Brown and his two sons, as well as two new City Coucillors, Josh Morgan and Jesse Helmer, joining in.


Then The London Shriners follow (check out their funky red loafers!) making a lot of noise with their drums, gongs, flutes and whistles!


And somewhere in the middle of this crowd, you’ll find me “The Peaceman!” with my son, Devon!  Of course, Mommy is in attendance, as well – who do you think took all of these photos?


We were greeted at the end of our one mile walk by this group of college and university students who dedicate themselves to ensuring that our post secondary students have a safe and trouble free experience while attending their schools.

Cookies, muffins and refreshments are waiting for us as we get a chance to inspect our new blisters and injured toes!  Our small moment of pain acts as a gentle reminder of those who have dealt with and still deal with other forms of pain on a daily basis.

I hope that this story has inspired you to ‘Be The Change!’ in your own community.  It is in each one of us to find the passion to be caring, sharing and giving.

I look forward to the day when our societies have matured to the point where events of this nature are but a distant memory!

Jim Kogelheide
2015





No comments:

Post a Comment