Monday, May 17, 2021 Better Together People everywhere are different—and the same. Life is too short—and too long—to dwell on what divides us Blogs Newsletters National By Eric Nederlof, Representative Some years ago, one component of a very complex process undertaken by CLAC was adopting the tag line Better Together. Now, I don’t know if I’m experiencing the same thing that happens when you buy a particular car, and then all of a sudden you see that same model all over the place. But since CLAC adopted Better Together, I’ve noticed a lot of tag lines and catch phrases that use the exact same phrase. I find that interesting particularly in these times, because based on media reports and political rhetoric, it appears our society is becoming less together. We are being defined more about what separates us rather than by what unites us. If you are like me, you want to believe the few reports that make it through the noise that say most people are still rational and live somewhere in the middle. A recent poll found that 60 percent of Canadians feel they have no political home in any of the current parties, due to their polarizing rhetoric and stances on issues. I had the opportunity recently to work in a different part of the country than I ever have before. What I discovered meeting new people is that people everywhere are different—and the same. Yes, there are many things people think differently about, even based on where they live. But most of these things are not about their main priorities in life. Most people want the opportunity and ability to do meaningful work that meets their personal and family needs. They want to live peaceful and contented lives, and they want the same for their neighbours. They want a balance in their work-life that allows for quality time with the people they care about. And they want to leave the world in better shape than they inherited it for the next generation. Life brings with it enough challenges on its own. There are more than enough difficulties and problems to worry about in the natural course of living. Life is too short—and too long—to dwell on what divides us. Instead, by focussing on what unites us, on what the majority of people truly desire, we will not only feel better, we will do better and we will be better—together. You might be interested in Why We Work Safely 5 Jun 2026 Standing Your Ground, and Staying Steady on the Job 4 Jun 2026 CLAC Partners with Alberta Government to Advance Skilled Trades Training and Accelerate Certification 4 Jun 2026 Strathcona Mechanical Workers Ratify New Agreement Providing Wage, Scheduling Improvements 3 Jun 2026