January 17, 2025
Since retiring from teaching in 2020, I’ve taken on a list of passion projects. Two (almost three) books, a few podcasts and videos, projects with Heritage York, Mapping our Memories, and “They Walked These Streets, We Will Remember Them” – it’s been amazing.
I’m always driven by a simple thought: “Everyone has a story.” I would tell that to anybody, regardless of hit counts, copies sold or subscriber numbers. But recently, something bigger happened. On January 15, 2025 – together with thirty-four other truly amazing people – I received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for my work on local history through my writing, media content, teaching and presentations. What a blast to see my name written on the same page as Pia Bauman, Madeleine McDowell and Philip Cote III! My heartfelt thanks to Minister of Parliament for Parkdale-High Park, Arif Virani, Governor-General of Canada, Mary Simon, and King Charles III, for this tremendous honour. Special shoutout to my wife Sue who has been there every step of the way – as she was last night.
To anyone out there who has always wanted to share your own story, but feel that maybe it’s not big enough, or your voice isn’t bold enough, I have some simple words of encouragement: Start telling your story today. You may not become a best-seller, or become an influencer. There may only be a few people in the room at first. But you’ll be surprised at what you can build when you put in the work and persevere. Besides, what else are you going to do with your life?
Cheers to your story!
Chris
