NDP LEADER Jack Layton always played it big.

Jack Layton knew how to play the game.

In the world of politics, he was a rare bird indeed. Full of hope, full of optimism. He oozed warmth, so much so that some political pundits criticized him for having a smile on his face far too often.

This morning when I heard he had moved on to his next big adventure, I couldn’t help but feel for his family, for his party, and frankly for the country. He did it right, by reminding us that as a nation not only do we have a responsibility to improve the lives of our fellow human, but it can be done.

Yes, we all bare personal responsibility for our own experience. But it’s equally true that selfishness, whether collectively as a corporation or individually as a neighbour, can send those who may already be struggling further down a road to despair.

Layton’s vision was to make a difference that bettered people’s lives, rather than merely their pocketbooks. His desire was authentic, and therefore infectious.

My hope is that Layton’s legacy will inspire others to expand what he started. As a country, we have the opportunity to create something unique. A model that others can follow that creates an environment for individual creativity, expression and entrepreneurship all the while supporting the whole.

Thank you Jack Layton for providing an example for the rest of us to follow.

Peace and blessings.