Author: Victor Hafichuk

Issue #7: Historical Challenges at Moon River Estates

June 17, 2024

Stephen Harris, I’m coming full circle with you since 1989 when you pondered, as I recall, who I was and what I believed I was here to do. Perhaps you’ve forgotten. I haven’t. I was surprised at your acute interest. I’ve done what I’ve had to do since then:

– Counter the MR Executive’s illegal, political, and real estate speculation stunts during the golf course debacle in 1989. When I spoke to the Crown Prosecutor about the situation, he warned me that the executive’s action of speculation on real estate without informing the community about the pending golf course was illegal according to the Alberta Memorandum of Association. He also made it clear that if I mentioned any names, he was obligated to prosecute them.

We prayed and God moved us to not report the names and that we needed to let things happen and let the executive have their way at the meeting of November 10th.  Which we did, and the whole enterprise fell apart. God put an end to it all.

For more details of that fateful night, see  https://www.thepathoftruth.com/what-the-lord-has-done-with-me/part5/p4.htm#nov-meeting.

– End the peace-disturbing, environment-damaging, and illegal dirt and motor bikers in 1989 and onward.

– Prevent the Creighton and Orr/Derricott golf course circuses in that year and following. Both were loser events to be put away.

– Prevent the Olafson/Mandel/Belly River Farms feedlot fiasco in 1993, which the Lord told Marilyn we would win if we fought it.  We joined the Moon River residents to fight the feedlot now looking like a sure deal. The developers withdrew even after being approved on the second reading. Imagine that. So nice when one has an Almighty “Hitman,” Steve.

Reports of these past events can be found at https://www.thepathoftruth.com/what-the-lord-has-done-with-me/introduction.htm.

– More recently, we addressed the Warren and other outrageous dog dramas where dog owners permitted their dogs to run unleashed and were allowed to trespass and mess in others’ yards and even attack citizens and their pets; they attacked me. I was told they attacked your wife Marquise on the path, yet nobody said anything. Leave it for someone else to deal with.

– Expose and address the recent Moon River Community FB page membership policies, rules, and other incidentals. For example, people can report poor missing kitty-cats, pooping foxes, 3-legged deer, sunsets, northern lights, lost and found, and other trivia, all good and well, but when someone wants to support people like James Tapp sacrificing themselves to fight offending, outrageous, socialist, detrimental, even illegal governmental policies, well, let’s not go there, right? Too political. Support shitting foxes instead.

Yes, truth in politics and religion is not for the faint of heart. Stick to sure soft fur and purr.

– And now, the paddock playpens for the wannabe higher society privileged.

All the while, as I addressed these issues, enemies have despised me for standing against selfishness, lawlessness, and injustice. Speaking sense and justice is a thankless job, as you all know. Isn’t that why almost nobody speaks up? Either that or they don’t know right from wrong or serious from silly or important from trivial.

However unpleasant, I’m fine with the opposition; it comes with the territory of openly speaking the truth to all, for all. Opposing might with the right is worth the fight, at least in my sight. (There I go waxing poetic again).

I’m humbled and consider myself privileged that God should count me worthy of His duties as His servant. The enmity I experience only serves to confirm the justification and need for His intervention and to fuel my resolve.

Stephen, you say these things aren’t up to me, but I tell you you’re wrong; it’s been my job all the while. It’s why I’ve come, it’s why I’ve remained against stacked odds, and it’s why I’m here now with many adversaries, continuing to deal with selfishness, ignorance, and downright wickedness.

Fine. I’m here in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, not in presumption, false piety, or derangement, but by His Divine Anointing and Appointment. Scoff if you will; believe it or not. And I’m beginning to wonder if this just now isn’t finally the beginning of the end of things for many, dreadfully so. The indicators have been there and nobody’s paying attention. It doesn’t take a prophet to discern them. But it is judgment for sin, both personal and public. That’s where prophets have a job to do.

Terrible firestorm clouds are swiftly upon us. Death and Hell are on the left and the right. Sadly, you’ll see soon enough, and many already have. But who will listen and change their minds and ways? When have those warned ever listened? They much preferred to stone the messengers.

Stubborn fools would rather disengage the car oil light when it comes on instead of addressing the problem to prevent potential serious harm. They mistake me for the oil light when it comes on, or lying about it. I’m merely crying out to y’all that it’s on and you’re not paying attention!

Stephen, on the heels of the MR Executive conflagration you attended at the fire hall on November 10, 1989, you asked me, “Why do you do this to yourself?” As if I was foolish to take positions that are sure to be hated by many in a typical community that would sweep controversial issues under the rug rather than deal with them and stop them from eventually going out of control.

A few months ago (35 years later now), you objected to my similar manner of involvement with the lawless administration of the paddocks.

The answer I gave you was, “It’s my job.”

You argued, “No, it’s not your job.”

Do you know that? You don’t know what you’re saying, Steve, and I needn’t argue with you.

You said, “Ok, look, they know you’re right, but must you tell everyone God is your hitman?!” (Correct me if I’m inaccurate in the substance and tenor of our conversation.)

But what if I am His hitman? And if I am, why not say so? Didn’t the Biblical prophets declare, “Thus says the Lord…?” I’m not sure if He’s my “Hitman” or Preserver. I believe I can fairly say it’s both. God appoints His provisional spokespersons, no matter their social stature, as it pleases Him to bring correction and to address societal errors and evils. People, such as the prophet Isaiah, for one example of many hundreds of thousands over the ages:

Isaiah 58:1 “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to My people their rebellion and to the house of Jacob (Israel) their sins.”

By not faithfully, mercifully sending His messengers to warn and rebuke lawless, ignorant people, societies eventually perish, eating one another alive, sooner or later. God has said the same to me as to Isaiah on this day, and however awkwardly, I’ve haltingly obeyed.

I don’t believe I’m permitted to hide the fact that He’s my “Hitman” or that I’m His servant. Give credit and glory where they’re due, especially when due to Him. After all, it’s HIS doing, not mine. It’s not that I must “do this to myself.” It’s that He compels me to speak up for Him and others’ sake. I can’t sleep soundly without obedience to Him.

Tell me how the Moon River community would have liked a desolate, abused landscape of a “homemade,” “did it myself” golf course made by someone who didn’t know what they were doing.

Or the ruins of an “18-hole professional golf course” replacing beautiful natural surroundings, which many people here enjoyed until a scam took temporary form and began to destroy the terrain. Many of you may not even be here now.

Tell me how Moon River would have enjoyed an industrial feedlot with the stench of a “lagoon” (a euphemism for an open sewage system), at the entrance to our community on what was once known as Belly River Farms. What an effective “moat” to keep out potential realty marketers and clients!

Who among you would hate me for standing up against that? Or for failing to speak up and prevent it if I had the opportunity to do something about it? I wasn’t the only one in battle. Maria Demers, Lloyd Sereda, Tim Jarvie and partner Anita, Etta Taylor, Pat King, and others also pitched in to ward off the feedlot danger to the community.

Tell me how y’all have enjoyed free range troublesome, bullying dogs as we just experienced, which was happening regularly with several owners until we pressed on the MD to enforce by-laws to stop them. I had to do it because nobody else would.

I have been salt for preserving and regulating society for a time in measure. Not quite as sweet as honey, which people’s taste buds would much prefer. I’m thankful that others have done the same in the past. I thank the Lord for raising up such people from time to time.

Tell me how the old-timers here enjoyed the noisy dirt bikes going steadily up and down our community roads and surroundings, constantly disturbing the peace until I and others stood up to them. Let them tell you.

True, nobody believes me. It comes with the territory, even as with all the other opposed messengers, called “prophets,” which He ever sent out to warn and tell people of their wrongdoings, not because He was a “meany” and hated them but because He loved them. But that’s not the way they saw it. Because they hate Him.

In Biblical and recorded secular or profane history, we know people killed the prophets and apostles, crucified Jesus Christ, and persecuted and murdered His followers ever since. But the rebels all perished for not heeding God’s messengers. So do all people perish for the same reason today. No difference.

Having experiences right here in Moon River, I dare say many of you would have been on the front lines, stoning God’s messengers and crucifying the Christ – guaranteed. Think about that! Where does that leave, and lead, you?

Oh, be upset with me. See if I care. Should I? What happened to the people who did kill their prophets and crucify Christ? Will it be any different for anyone else? Not a chance. It’s been happening, I’ve specified and can specify – more to come.

Steve, the apostle Peter and several others asked Jesus the Messiah in the days of His flesh, the same sort of question you asked me 35 years ago: “Why do you do this to yourself?” and He could only reply the same as I do. “My Father has sent Me to testify against the world and it hates Me for it.”

The world hates the Father and that’s why it hates me because I come from the Father, and am One with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ, according to the Scriptures. These are things that churches may doctrinally touch on but know and believe little to nothing about. Oh, the shock coming to the “righteous” hypocrites, but also to the rest, even the so-called “heathen.”

Issue #6: The Clash of Good and Evil Righteousnesses

June 11, 2024

“Have I now become your enemy because I am telling you the truth?” (Galatians 4:16 NLT)

Another good day of results via The Moon River Monocle. As expected, there are people offended by what I’ve had to say. I knew that I wasn’t going to make any friends. I also knew I’d be exposing enemies. It can’t be otherwise. That is the reality of the clash of Light and darkness, of Good and evil, and of Truth and lies.

Pride ranks at the top of the list of barring people from perceiving the Truth. With pride come stubbornness, prejudice, and fear, formidable adversaries that refuse to allow their prisoners to see anything God’s way. Many, if not most, human beings think they’re “good,” and virtuous, according to their definitions garnered from their families, churches, societies, and even from their mothers’ wombs, in their very natures.

But few know what God has to say about their alleged goodness and it’s all in the Bible. Now, people are naturally opposed to the Bible. Why? Because it speaks authoritatively of the true nature of humanity, a nature of falling short of God’s character and glory. It is called the “sin nature.”

The Bible is the Book of all books, the Greatest Written Moral Authority produced in all of humanity’s history, provided by man’s Creator, produced over thousands of years through at least 40 writers anointed by the Spirit of God to tell humankind the truth about Him and His work with us. And yes, God wrote the Bible as He moved men to do His bidding. They are not the writers of the Bible. They are God’s instruments to do so.

Why does humanity hate the Bible? Only because it testifies of its Author, the Lord and Creator of all, Jesus Christ, Who is Love! Imagine that! If you have no use or desire for the Bible, it’s because you have no use for the Author.

Why am I telling you this? The Truth by the Moon River Monocle is now being written to deal with the sins of humanity, not only in Moon River but also throughout the earth. God is now bringing this age of many ages to an ugly end and the presumptuous “righteous” will smart for it, not expecting they would fail to make the grade.

Unless people change their minds about their goodness and worthiness, unless they turn from following and acting by their proud, selfish, pleasure-loving, ignorant, falling-short-of-God’s Nature and their independence from God and His Required Standard, they will perish. The signs of perishing are written all over them for those with eyes to perceive. Essentially, in its depravity, humanity is blind to itself and so God must intervene lest all should perish. Many will.

Judgment is here. It has “sneaked up” on everyone, as it has in every age closing, though many saints and prophets have spoken against the evils of mankind – I’m not nearly the only one who has done so. God’s chosen speakers, His mouthpieces, His prophets have faithfully warned the world, but the world isn’t the least bit interested. People will stick to the self-made righteousness they think to have and pay no mind to the Righteous God, Who Alone is Righteous.

In our tiny hamlet of Moon River Estates, as a direct result of reading The Moon River Monocle recently published, I have now had others talk to me about the contents. They demanded anonymity.

I have had to learn and receive God’s knowledge and wisdom He freely gives when asked for it, as promised. So, now I try to avoid hasty commitments. I need to pray and let things “cook” for a while until I’m satisfied that I understand sufficiently the meaning and implications of what was said. Only then can I speak with a clean and clear conscience. We are so seriously responsible for our words.

Jesus said, “I tell you that men will have to answer at the day of judgment for every careless word they utter—for it is your words that will acquit you, and your words that will condemn you.” Did He speak foolish, ignorant words? No.

So, we had those objecting to my Monocle reporting. I’ll call them, “Candid.” I would assess them as fervent, wanting to have friendship, but as with most people, on their terms and definitions, hastily sweeping aside any contrary positions to theirs without hearing them out. Feisty when driven to be, very sure of themselves, and presuming and claiming to study and do research before diving into conviction, decision, action, or discussion. Yet, so strangely enough, quite ignorant and naïve about the basic issues of life, of which almost all people are. It’s called the power of falling short and adamantly insisting on one’s perspective. Emphasizing the small and despising the important. The Bible calls it “sin.”

“Straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel,” is how Jesus put it.

Candid couldn’t understand what I was saying or where I was coming from, not that I expected anyone would, quite the opposite. To understand the message is a gift, a miracle from God. So, most, if not all, will talk in reaction to the Monocle with misunderstanding and resistance. Will anyone pursue the true meaning and interpretation and choose life? Hardly. Sad and tragic it is, but true.

People are afraid to be told the truth about themselves and their morality. Perish the thought. Why? They love their sin. They know they’re not moral according to God’s Standard as spelled out in His Law. What’s more, they instinctively know it will be required of them.

People know! I know! You all know! Yet, who among us wants to face and deal with it, which is the only solution to the dilemma? Only by God’s Grace can we be truly honest with ourselves and others.

We talked with Candid about the horse paddocks, the association, the executive, social responsibilities, private matters, and mostly about two of the most important subjects of all, God and the Bible, central to the universe and to the heart. But those last two subjects are shaky, often testy grounds for conversation, aren’t they?

We strongly disagreed. Candid was candid with me, and I was more candid with Candid than Candid was candid with me. Still, we had what I consider to be a good talk. I think they were also somewhat appreciative, too. I could be wrong. Time will tell. After this post God now gives me to write, Candid may have a change of mind, but I speak words that will one day count for Candid and Candid will be thankful. I know this from God to be true.

Irony of ironies! How ironic this encounter has been! Candid told us how the community was complaining about my bringing everything into the open by the Monocle, naming names and offenses. None of this vicious criticism was brought to me; it was spoken without me. They backbite, accuse without cause, defame my character, criticize, and condemn me behind my back. How nice of “good persons.” Candid even acted out those spirits.

I thought, “Oh my! If all this is so harshly expressed to my face, what must it have been like in my absence?”

But consider, people: The very purpose of The Moon River Monocle is to counter ignorant and secret murmurings, backbiting, gossip, slander, evil surmisings, false accusations, cruelty, and lies of all sorts by bringing it all into the open. Y’all gossip, speak negatively, and condemn others behind their backs (I’ve got no shortage of specific examples and may speak about them in due time, God willing) and deem yourselves innocent.

You won’t talk to their faces, no, no – why would you want to hang out dirty laundry? Our righteousness forbid! But while I honestly and openly bring things to light so that dirty, increasingly stinky laundry is dealt with as it should, you angrily, indignantly condemn me.

This is how people in their goodness outside of God’s Goodness do things and think nothing of it, justifying themselves as righteous, neighborly community citizens for justice. And they call it “Love.” Yikes. It’s the opposite of love.

And the super righteous may go to church an hour or two a week to salve their conscience and prove that they are bona fide “lovers” of both Jesus Christ and neighbor. Hypocrites! Serving themselves because they believe in themselves, all the way to their graves after first filling a few other graves by the spades of their evil tongues. But to believe in God and His Law is way too much to ask.

Death and Hell are coming and at the doors. Nobody deserving them will escape. People need some serious change. Is it too late?

What is the Moon River Monocle all about? It is about notifying the residents that lies people call “truth” don’t pay; only God’s Truth does. Fair warning! Their unacceptable conduct will be named and addressed. No more whispering behind the neighbor’s back. No more gossip. No more slander or false premises and accusations.

In short, no more murdering your neighbor, shitting on their walking path, and expecting others to clean up your mess if they care. Candid preached that I should stop bitching and take the noble measure to quietly clean the mess myself. Candid didn’t know I had already done exactly that, long before it was mentioned.

How interesting is that? My taking a shovel and cleaning the horse and dog crap from the walking path, then Candid scoldingly telling me that’s the way to do things instead of criticizing and finding fault.

Candid also preached that I should go to the person I’m offended with and talk to them first. Very good principle – very Biblical. Well, I did just that, too, more than once, ahead of Candid’s counsel. The guilty parties stopped with the messing, and I was only despised for it by one of them. But oh, it’s all Victor’s fault. So, Candid, what do you make of that? You understandably assumed you were counseling a hypocrite or ne’er-do-well. This time, not so.

I’ll tell you a story about this. One day, I decided to clean the horse crap off the path so, I took a small shovel in place of one of my walking sticks.

On the path, I chanced on Josephine Kush coming my way for her walk. She instantly burst out laughing, “Victor, do you realize that’s a shovel and not a walking stick?!”

I held up and looked at the stick in one hand and the shovel in the other, and replied, “Oh, and that would be which one?”

Again, she got a chuckle out of it. I’ve grown to appreciate her some.

Candid finally made it clear that if I should mention their identity, they would not again sit at my table. I’ve not only not mentioned names, but I’ve also diligently avoided any telltale identification to reveal their identity. If they also meant that I wasn’t to say anything at all publicly, then I suppose I’ve failed to meet that demand.

I think it’s up to me to decide who sits or does not sit at my table. It seems they presume it to be a privilege for me if they sit at my table, and I can say I DO consider it a privilege, I truly do. But I also think that they must try the shoe on the other foot, too. In other words, consider that it may be that they are privileged to sit at my table.

Why would I speak about all these things publicly? Why can’t I simply write a private letter or speak directly with them? It’s because I choose to have many think about these things and hopefully gain from them if so inclined. These are principles worth considering.

People, the time for self-righteously dishing out your loving bullshit is over.

No more denying another’s right to their side of the story. No more lying. No more selfish behavior. No more “innocent” and common evil. Done. God is finished winking. He told me so, first in 1977, then ’84, ’91, ’98, 2005, 2012, and 2019, every 7 years.

Is Victor an angel or better than anyone else? No. To many, he’s the Devil for the Truth he speaks, which counters “relative truth.”

Has he ever done wrong? The worst. Yet forgiven, redeemed, cleansed, and healed by the sacrificial flesh and blood of Christ, even as the Scriptures have declared for thousands of years to be possible, readily available, and super necessary. It’s do or die.

Have I ever been guilty of the kind of “bullshit” I’m now calling out on others? Yes, even your brands of it and worse.

But God pulled me out of the horrible pit of corruption. The same has happened for many.  As Isaiah the Hebrew prophet says:

“Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: But You have in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: For You have cast all my sins behind Your back” (Isaiah 38:17).

Multitudes of people like Candid think they are good. God says not one person is good, not one:

“There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one” (Romans 3:10-12).

I tried to tell Candid just that, but they don’t believe in God or the Bible. This is sad and tragic. One day, after much suffering, Candid will know differently. I look forward to it and will do what I can to assist them on the way and beyond, as God’s love calls for, so help me God. There’s no better place to be. Candid will love me in Truth as I love Candid in Truth.

Turn from your careless lives of corruption, Moon River. You hate me with passion now that I’ve openly spoken the Truth. When you see me coming, you turn the face and shoulder away. You despise me; you sulk; you avoid me like the plague. You’re afraid. Behind my back, you tear me apart with your teeth and curse me in your hearts.

Yet, you cannot tell me that I’ve done any evil to you to deserve your hatred and contempt. You may find me socially rude and unacceptable, inept and clumsy in expression, an outcast, “disconnected,” as Kyla puts it, and full of “bullshit,” as Maas Brink declares, but you can’t pin me for wrongdoing, can you? Honestly?

If so, have at it, publicly. If you’re right, I’ll confess. If you’re wrong, I’ll correct you.

“Who convinces me of sin?” asked Jesus of those who hated Him, and so I ask you. They slandered, reviled, and lied about Him. As it says, “They hated Me without a cause,” but He said they hated Him because He testified against them. All the while they saw themselves as “good persons,” and so it is here. No different.

I’m here in His Name, sent by Him to speak the painful truth to you, at my cost of being scorned and despised, for all our sakes, and you’d sooner kill me than listen to me. You consider me a damned fool, out of my mind, or in delusion, I know.

And you drag your children, neighbors, and loved ones into the fray. They also shun me, having heard your evil talk against me in private.

“There’s nothing hidden that won’t be made manifest,” said Jesus. So, you have your evil, adulterated, unjust sins passed on to them, thus destroying even your children. Is that good that parents should eat their own young?

Who knows what the next ISSUE will be about but for those who hate this message from God by me, finding it contemptible and unpalatable, don’t bother stopping in. Perish instead. Be sure your sin will find you out. Have your short-term pleasure and empty gain for long-term trouble, sorrow, and pain. Your choice.

But there will be names named and sins defined, by God’s grace. Find out who and what they are and perhaps God will have mercy on you, your lives may be turned around, and you’ll be surely blessed. What’s so bad about that? That’s the only reason I’m writing. If I’m wrong, I’ll be dead, and the Lord will surely let everyone know. If I’m right, you’ll know it. God have mercy!

Happily, I have hopes for Candid. Believe it. Is this hope from God? I think so. Time will tell, won’t it? No escaping that. Time is in God’s hands, as well. I thank and praise God He Lives! So will you all one day, each person in their appointed time.

“All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away” (Isaiah 64:6 NIV).

In His Blessed Service for all your sakes,

Victor Hafichuk

Issue #5: Some Good News Indeed

June 4, 2024

On Tuesday, May 29, 2024, Moon River residents had their Annual General Meeting (AGM). I have some good news to announce from that meeting. I may not be all wine and roses, but neither am I all thorns and tears, I’ll have you know. I discovered that someone cleaned up the Kush horse paddock #1 – after several years of vexation. I understand the Municipal District of Willow Creek gave Moon River a helping hand. Whoever did it, I thank you. I suspect Stephen Harris and perhaps Andy Dormaar helped implement the operation. Thank you, fellows, as well, if so.

See how nice and accommodating I can be? No need for unfriendliness or chafing. No need for dark countenances or silent treatment. I didn’t earn it and don’t deserve it. I’m sure, at least hope, y’all can appreciate messes cleaned up. Mostly, some just don’t like being strongly, and especially publicly urged to do what’s needed. Call me, “importunate,” if you will. Sounds more “Biblical.” I can be like a “nagging wife,” but we can all agree that some nagging partners are necessary and can serve profitably withal.

For all I know, Miriam Dekker was also involved. I haven’t heard, but I hope so. If not, I still hope she and Annette will move on to finishing the paddock situation by closing it down and doing everyone a good service, including their horses. Well overdue.

At least two other vacated paddocks still need cleanup – #9 and one other; however, these acts of improvement do little to nothing for the horses still suffering in the last two actives of the ten paddocks. The horses stand lonely, and their environment demonstrates the condition of their sad, desolate souls. It is a shame to subject these animals to such merciless conditions. To do it for status, pride, sport, profit, hobby, or any other unworthy purpose makes it all the worse.

The paddocks must be shut down. God have mercy on these creatures, and on the community in general, which is ultimately responsible, as well.

By God’s grace, I was the one who finally stepped up to condemn it. No bragging; just stating facts with sobriety. It’s my job. The despicable paddock situation has been a nuisance and vexation for years. So, with the good news that the paddocks are getting cleaned up, and in hopes of progressing to the finish, I have a question: Does anyone presume it would have happened this past week if I hadn’t pursued the matter? I don’t believe there’s anyone with honesty and knowledge who could deny it.

Before I proceed further, let me bring in a Scripture that I opened my Bible to for Marilyn’s and my daily reading:

“Therefore, since through God’s mercy, we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the Word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.

“And even if our good news is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the Gospel that displays the glory of Christ, Who is the image of God. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, Who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:1-6).

It was Paul the apostle who wrote those words to the saints in Corinth and he included himself with many ministers of God. By God’s grace, Marilyn and I are rightly included.

Now, this community annual general meeting (AGM) is extraordinarily special for us, not only for the news of the paddock being cleaned up. There’s much more. Our next-door neighbor, Angela Suntjens, with whom I had had a bizarre and unpleasant conflict a couple of years ago, came to me after the meeting. She had just been voted out of her position as vice president of the association after one term. A member of the association, Jayne Bury, had nominated Rebecca Foss, a newcomer to Moon River, to replace Angela as vice president, and the vote was carried in Rebecca’s favor.

But for now, I’ll relay part of my conversation with Angela. She appeared to be willing to have a friendly conversation. Upon confronting her with some elements of our conflict, Angela humbly admitted her wrong and apologized to me. Wonder of wonders. I was surprised. It was so unexpected. And I don’t believe it was merely because she suffered a defeat in the election. Marilyn and I were perceiving something greater and better going on, something that had been working in her well before the meeting. Are we mistaken?

A sincere confession, admission of guilt, and apology are something of a rarity nowadays, particularly with people who don’t profess Jesus Christ as Lord. What’s worse is that those who profess faith in Christ rarely apologize for their wrongs. For shame! You know who I’m talking about. And a mere apology will not correct blasphemy.

I spoke bluntly with Angela, she listened, and we made headway to what I dearly hope will lead us from a lengthy and unpleasant standoff of enmity to something very good ahead.

Angela, that evening I gladly accepted your apology. Marilyn and I are thankful for it and will endeavor to work with you from there. However, I want to give you a heads-up. I’ll be discussing what has gone on between you, us, and God. I want to tell everyone the whole story, for good, for your sake, and others’ sake for purposes of instruction, edification, and God’s Glory. It will be good for all, you will know it, and ultimately, so will everyone else.

If you don’t resist God’s mercy and forgiveness because of pride or social discomfort, it will pave the way for your blessing. What could be as good as that? Don’t let anything deter or rob you of it. It is God’s will for you. I would like to speak to Jimmy here, as well.

I’ll bring up one item from the past for now. After that altercation we had between us that set things on the wrong and trying track, you said to Jimmy, your husband, as you two walked by our house looking at me in the window, “There’s the Devil!” I mentioned it, and you remembered and readily admitted it. You were honest! Wow!

Sometime before that, when you first moved to Moon River, you had asked me what I did, and I told you I was a man of God. I have rarely personally done that at Moon River in our 36 years. “That’s nice,” you replied with a bit of discomfort, cynicism, and condescension, which I had expected.

Has it gone well for you since your stance against me? You began to discover otherwise. God was not pleased.

Stephen Harris once said, “They [the people of the community] know you’re right, but must you tell everyone God is your hitman?”

Though I wouldn’t use his words to describe my relationship with God, I answer, “Yes, I must.” It’s been proven again and again and will continue to be proven. Those who don’t believe it and take issue with it will find out. Several have suffered the consequences and still don’t know what hit them. I have more to say on this in future issues, Lord willing.

Didn’t the Lord promise He would “come as a thief?” There’s more to be said about that. Soon to come, Lord willing, in the next issue of the Monocle. With fear and trembling, I’m looking forward to it. How about the rest of y’all? I will be truthful and honest, bold and direct.

The command for reality, truth, and decency in Moon River is here. The Lord is finished winking. For the honest and well-meaning, there is nothing to fear; for those who have selfish interests and something to hide, there’s plenty to fear. No threats or intentions of action, just the truth.

Victor Hafichuk

Issue #4: A Neighbor’s Version of Good Neighborly Relations

May 26, 2024

I’ve tried to befriend my backyard neighbors. They know it…and I found they contemned the thought. There always seemed to be something unspoken between us I couldn’t put my finger on. They would give me a perfunctory greeting when we would meet on the community walking path. We’d have a tad of common “weather talk,” and even some political discourse provided I brought it up. How could we not, given the controversial and unpleasant times we’re living in? But touch on the “God stuff” and horse shit doesn’t touch it. You step in the fresh dog and human stuff now.

So, I thought, “Here I go asking for trouble again, getting a little too close for comfort with people who would much prefer to have nothing to do with me, especially if they hold to partisan religious convictions and practice that I have a reputation and public record for not agreeing with. But, I’m going to end the mystery and ask. Why not be open and honest? What evil is there in that? Isn’t it only fair and “neighbor friendly” with the right attitude?

So, as I was mowing my front lawn, I saw Maas and Tinie Brink walking by. I rode my tractor to the Moon River muster point at the bottom of the hill to catch up with them. To start, Maas asked me something about the size of the community cistern. I answered and proceeded to my intended question.

“Folks, we meet up with each other, we’re friendly, but somehow, I feel like we’re not being honest and genuine with each other. Am I wrong? I want to ask, Have Marilyn and I ever said or done anything wrong, anything to offend you? If so, please, tell us. Perhaps we can make it right… Is there anything and if so, what is it?”

In unison, they immediately and energetically responded, seemingly with some surprise, dare I say, even shock: “What? Oh no, not at all! Wherever did you get that idea? There’s nothing at all! Everything’s fine, no problem! Why do you think that?”

I was momentarily taken aback because I didn’t expect such a sudden and strong reaction and denial of what I felt was going on. I knew I hadn’t been open and honest with them for months and years now by not facing what I was feeling and wondering how to resolve it. It had been obvious they wanted to avoid talking personally and openly as I now was.

Tinie seemed the more persistent one, friendlily trying to get to the bottom of this matter. “Tell me, where did you get this idea?! I never thought or felt this,” or words to that effect.

So, in my many experiences with the Dutch, I found they could be no-nonsense people. Frankly, I appreciate that with them. I hate small talk; I like no-nonsense conversation. I have a brother and sister in Christ who manage our organic Harvest Haven farm and store. Martin is reputed for being direct, honest, and bold in speech. To many, it’s refreshing, while to others it’s offensive, especially if the truth hits too close to home. I’m not talking only spiritual, religious, or political matters, but all sorts of subjects.

So, I went only where I knew I should go with Maas and Tinie – the open route, not to be offensive or demeaning but plain and truthful, not hiding anything.

“Well, maybe I’m wrong, after all. It might be just ‘sensitive me’ feeling things that aren’t there. I know that Dutch Reformed people can be more direct.”

“WELL, STOP RIGHT THERE!” blurted Maas, bluntly, vehemently, and dismissively.

Another unexpected direction and timing from the Brinks. “Wait,” I thought, “did he think I was insulting or faulting him, perhaps for his religious convictions (I wasn’t)?” I wanted to explain but he adamantly would have none of it.

So, I was right? There was something amiss after all?

Maas continued, loud and clear. “LET’S GET THIS STRAIGHT RIGHT NOW, ONCE FOR ALL. I KNOW WHAT YOU’RE ALL ABOUT. I SEE YOUR BULLSHIT ON THE INTERNET AND I WANT NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. DO YOU HEAR ME? NOTHING. YOU’RE A CULT!

“LET’S JUST BE GOOD NEIGHBORS, FRIENDLY, AND LEAVE IT AT THAT, OKAY, YOU UNDERSTAND? KEEP YOUR BULLSHIT TO YOURSELF AND WE’LL JUST GET ALONG FINE.”

Maas walked away and left Tinie a bit stymied, standing between us, seemingly wondering what was going on, looking and calling after him. I stood there saying, “Maas, come back. Let’s talk!” Again, I was taken aback.

“What?” I thought, “First, that was my exact aim – good neighborly relations. Two, immediately and without provocation, he was dramatically proving my lingering suspicion of there being something not right to be a valid one, after all, (oh, the contradiction and irony!), and three, how in Heaven or on earth were we supposed to proceed from here with a ‘friendly, neighborly, but impersonal relationship’?”

Tinie seemed to want to resolve the issue. I repeated my request for Maas to return and reason but he would have none of it. Tinie rejoined Maas, they went their way, and I was forced to go mine, sad, disappointed, disturbed, with my mission of peace unaccomplished.

The record of the conversation is not exact in words but quite accurate in spirit and substance.

Does Maas not realize what happened? It seems he couldn’t care less. I was so right. He so furiously disdained me. What had I done to him that was so wrong, so blameworthy? Or to anyone, that I wasn’t willing to resolve if possible? He certainly had no will to reconcile or understand anything.

But wait, there’s more. Within weeks, I heard “by the grapevine” that Maas was vehemently declaring his version of our event, which was quite different and contrary from mine, accusing me of evil, even crime. And so, I post this so people will hear the other side. Let Maas refute it in public discourse.

It’s often the conquerors in wars that report the histories. Napoleon was to have said that “history is a set of lies agreed upon.” He is so right. But I now declare the Truth, not agreed upon by corrupt men. They will be exposed and fall. True history will be written. The Light of all men will be manifest.

An apology would be nice. One can only hope.

You see, people, here’s what the Moon River Monocle is all about. I’m done with being silent about the gossip, slander, ugly rumors, destructive criticisms, hatred, ignorance, self-righteousness, and false accusations, not only about myself but of everyone else. I’ve avoided confrontation and conflict. That was then and this is now.

I will post more examples of specific incidents and people. My purpose is to expose the works of darkness that people seem so naturally entitled to, not giving a damn about whether those things are true or honest, paying no mind to how they hurt others. I’m relating to Moon River Estates, but it’s the same all over the world.

Let the Truth be spoken.

Victor Hafichuk

Issue #3: And What About the Horses?

May 24, 2024

Don’t get me started (or please do!) on cruelty to animals and their natural rights. Here we have the horse, an intelligent, gregarious, sensitive animal with a natural herding instinct and desire for the company of both two and four-legged kinds. And, except for being visited for a few minutes and fed once or twice a day, at Moon River “Estates” it must suffer solitary confinement pretty much 24/7 from all living things besides occasional gophers, predatory coyotes, and mountain lions.

Not that I equate animals to people in every way as some ignorant and naive do-gooder animal activists. But don’t these poor creatures deserve a fair measure of kindness and consideration? I say we have animal cruelty going on. I don’t say it’s out of deliberate cruelty, I don’t think so, but it is out of carelessness and ignorance, isn’t it?

I felt sorry for the lone horse and promised I’d speak for it. I suspect it understood and even hoped I would keep that promise.

Meanwhile, the offender is a member of good standing as a “horse owner” in a “high society” acreage community with a horse paddock. Who gives a damn about the wretched animal! Not the proud owner, that’s not who. Nor does anyone else, like me, if we don’t speak up.

I’m so sorry I didn’t see this years ago when there were still many paddock renters with horses suffering similar torment. There were once 10 paddocks, not sure how many were fully utilized, and now there are only two in use – or abuse. The rest of the once proud aspiring owners either moved out of Moon River or quit keeping horses.

When lumber values suddenly went through the roof a few years ago and word was out that residents could salvage lumber from vacated paddocks as long as they also cleaned up the garbage and scraps, some people, even those who had nothing to do with the paddocks, came, took the valuables, and “saddled” the Moon River residents with the unfinished mess.

Hugo, were you one of those? It is rumored that you were. I hope not. I’m asking. If you’re being maligned without justification, let’s clear the air and let me exonerate you. You see? This is what I mean. There’s plenty of rumoring, gossip, slander, and backstabbing in Moon River but not one tongue lifted to correct matters openly with honesty and justice. You people know who you are, or should I name names? I’m willing, even if you aren’t.

I’m addressing selfishness and hatred of neighbor (one and the same) here. Hate and threaten me for it. Show your colors God is identifying. I don’t care. Spread more lies and dump criticisms about me and others. It will only prove the justice of my cause, won’t it? Do the right, people. God now requires it of you, and of me to speak up.

I’m ashamed of myself for not paying attention and speaking up years ago, and if I didn’t know any better, I’d feel even worse. But I have learned there’s an appointed time and place for everything. Has that time come at long last?

But now, must I continue to be the community clown, social misfit, “false prophet,” “resident cult,” the “disconnected” one, because I’m just not nice, silent, docile, submissive, conformative, passive, or inoffensive. And to whom? The selfish offenders of the good, to both the irreligious and the acceptable “good and upright church-going folk” blatantly defaming me as a “bullshitter” and blaspheming Jesus Christ? I’ll deal with you too, so help me God.

I’ll declare it. The real reason I’m hated by many is because I have The Lived-Out True Biblical Faith in the True Lord Jesus Christ that others professing faith in Him just don’t have – theirs is religious hand-me-down filthy rags, but not Biblical robes of truth, reality, justice, honesty, humility, and practicality. I expose their hypocrisy. Why? Because I love The Creator of All Things and they don’t. It’s that simple. And I’m prepared to discuss this with anyone and give them the reason for the Hope that is in me.

So, now what?

Moon River Prestigious Horse Paddocks?

Give me a break!

This paddock business is all horse shit. Moon River Estates has the unenviable reputation of amateur animal husbandry, in this case, horses, and knowing very little, at the expense of the animals, the abused plots of land, and the general residents of the hamlet. In past years, well before our present administration’s term, I’ve had M.D. employees openly, though unofficially wonder, “What the hell are those people in Moon River thinking? It’s one thing after another!”

Stephen, I’m sharing this letter with the community, for 3 reasons:

One, to express what I believe needs to be done with the Moon River horse paddocks – forthwith discontinue them;

two, I’m able to express more adequately what a general meeting won’t accommodate sufficiently;

and three, many community members don’t attend the meetings and I think they ought to know some of these things. After all, it’s their business too, in every way. Know it, believe it, like it, or not.

IT IS TIME FOR THE PADDOCKS TO GO.

Now, Stephen, concerning the paddocks. Isn’t it time they were eliminated with irrefutably good reason? Who will speak up if I don’t?

In the next issue, I’ll discuss personal encounters with Moon River people who have offended and spread lies. I once ignored them but now I not only want to, but need to, speak up. People can’t be allowed to go on in their wickedness in God’s sight. He won’t have it. He’ll take no more bullshit from anyone. I’ll say who and how.

By the way, I have tried to not be too religious for the secular and profane who are well-steeped in the “heathen” spirit. I do not wish to offend, but enough is enough. You have no right to elbow God out of the picture. He’s the Creator, don’t you know?

However, it is those with fake Christian professions and credentials that are most offensive to me, and them I must address in Biblical, as well as moral and spiritual terms. Any that despises the mention of God, too bad. I won’t cater to your HEATHEN terminal stance of death and hell anymore. Done. God is in charge, not you, religious or otherwise. You’re all at fault and I’m here to say so and how. Next issue coming soon.

Victor Hafichuk

Issue #2: Straight From the Horse’s Mouth

May 16, 2024

Before continuing with the horse paddock debacle of Moon River, a reminder that the paddocks aren’t the primary focus of the Moon River Monocle. The issue is the selfishness and polite hatred of neighbors prevalent in the world.

I’ve witnessed and suffered the rotten attitudes of several who think they have the social right to do as they please, treat their offenses as though nothing happened, and that neighbors have no right to complain or differ with them.

Adding sin to sin, they think they can justify themselves by pretentious social gestures that have no substance or value, and that such conduct would compensate for their selfish behavior. It is hypocrisy.

If there are things God hates, it’s lying, injustice, slander, and hypocrisy. I will address such cases and won’t stop until justice is satisfied in Heaven and Earth by the record. Some are so used to their unacceptable and unjust way of so-called life they’re barely aware of it. I’ll make known their ways as unacceptable to both man and God. Now for…

Annette Tompkins:

Miriam or anyone else, you can pass this letter on to Annette, seeing I don’t have her public email address and I don’t appear to be welcome on her doorstep, as is widely evident. My experience with her in all of this has been an unpleasant one. She has no business making it a nasty affair, doing to others what she’s been doing. I’ve meant and done her no evil. What was I doing wrong that I should be treated rudely and hated? Was I forced to be the offender by having to speak up when no one else would?

Tell me, anyone, what wrong have I done any of you? Why was Annette upset with me? I knew why. I was doing all path users a favor, and she didn’t appreciate it. After all, she was a horse paddock possessor! How dare I? She proceeded to threaten me to not threaten her. How ironic! I threatened nobody.

I’ll tell you what happened for the record. Weeks earlier, on September 5, I had asked Annette to be considerate of her neighbors and cease letting her horse crap on the community path. As I had asked you, Miriam. Only while you made a promise to deal with your horse and made good on it, I was annoyed when Annette gave me an unexpected array of childish, outrageous arguments and excuses for why she had the right to let her horse shit on the path.

“This path wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for us horse paddock people.” Suggesting we non-horse owners were privileged by the horse owners, she was therefore allowed to do as she pleased. And that we peons (or “poop-ons”) should be thankful to occasionally step in shit, shut up, and enjoy.

But how does that work? Is it true? Is it considerate and respectful to others? Is it fair?

She continued her defense: “They (the walkers) could walk off the path around the dumps.”

Really? Let horses and Annette do as they please and the rest of the community must tolerate her crude, selfish behavior? Says who, the head of the paddock committee? Is that how she likes to be treated?

“What about the dog crap?” she countered.

“That too, Annette. Dog owners are responsible for it on the path; they need to clean up behind them. But we’re dealing with your horse crap right now; that’s the issue,” I returned.

She wouldn’t quit: “Once a horse stops to dump, it can’t move; it stays where it dumps,” she argues.

So, whose fault is that – if true? Who put the horse on the path?

“What about bikes? They’re not supposed to be on the path!” she objected.

True,  but while the path wasn’t meant for bikes, they don’t shit and leave unpleasant messes. Besides, her horse behavior was still the issue for now.

“Be considerate of your neighbors, Annette.”

“If I get off my horse to clean up after it, I can’t get back on,” she excused.

Then keep your horse off the path, which is for people, not horses that don’t need manicured paths. If their tootsies are so tender, shoe them… double, with American, not Chinese, steel! Or come back when done with your ride and clean up!

She just would not quit: “Horse manure breaks down soon, so what’s the problem?” she argued.

Horse manure has remained for months, on or beside the path. Meanwhile, do we stay off the path or follow her instructions until the stuff disappears?

“Consider your neighbors,” I insisted.

Suddenly, she becomes conveniently considerate to her one remaining paddock partner, Miriam, who was waiting patiently for us in her car behind Annette. “I gotta go. We’re holding up traffic,” she dismissively declared, and took off.

What the..? Where are common reason and decency anymore? What am I doing wrong? Will someone please tell me? After all, I’m telling you what you’re doing wrong, aren’t I? Return the favor, please. Shouldn’t my intervention for good be considered a social service and not treated as a criminal offense?

And now, as we pass one another on the road, Annette and Jay won’t so much as look at me. What? Are you two right?

What is it with people? I’m trying to be nice about it even though “taking shit” from them in more ways than one, while they expect me and everyone else to take it. Then, they resent me for not taking it, compelling me to speak up against it. Chutzpah, I’d say.

Truly, Annette, you ought to be thanking me for making you see the decent social light, but no! You’re offended. Amazing, the attitudes of the world. Selfish, hateful, privileged, and thoroughly rude. And they speak against me as though I was a selfish troublemaker.

I can take shit and have taken much, but now I’m tired of it. I’m tired of being a silent coward who sees and hears the wrong but remains silent for fear of social stigma and repercussions. What? Offenders dare to be publicly selfish and obtrusive, and I don’t dare open my mouth against community selfishness and unpleasantries?

Isn’t it time reality had a say? I think so. Isn’t this what the stuff of life and loving neighbor is supposed to be all about, after all? More on that with specific individuals, too. For now…

What about the welfare of the horses? And what is the solution to this situation, which I would categorize as a crisis when it comes right down to decency and honesty?

The next issue coming soon.

Victor Hafichuk

 

Issue #1: Taking Down the Dirty Laundry

May 11, 2024

You’ll see I’ve written a substantial document. I expect some of you’ll be interested in reading it. I doubt many of you will be able to put it down until you’ve red it all. It is important, informative, historical, interesting, challenging, annoying, enlightening, thought-provoking, revealing, useful, and anything but boring.

If somebody doesn’t speak up when evil or foolish things happen, those things will only continue and multiply until corruption overpowers. I don’t think we should allow that to happen. Do you?

Sadly, most people are reticent to speak up, being afraid, lazy, ignorant, and preoccupied with selfish interests so that inevitably, they and their neighbors suffer. In good conscience, I’m not free to let that happen. So, I speak.

Before going on, I have an important question to ask all those who think I’m “airing dirty laundry in public.” Which is preferable to you? To tell the Truth (which is clean, and anything but “dirty”) publicly, or to gossip, murmur, backbite, slander, defame, whisper, and shout out rumors, unproven matters, and lies behind their neighbors’ backs, even to their faces, which is nothing but dirty laundry? Who hangs out dirty laundry anyway?

Though I intend no evil to anyone here, I am being bold to speak the Truth. If you can’t be bothered to read this paper, then don’t. It’s your choice and your problem. Here’s an example of one who’s offended with me, as she replied to a previous letter of mine to the Moon River community:

From: KylaRLambSPN <kylarlambtutt@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2022 9:59 PM
To: KylaRLambSPN <kylarlambtutt@gmail.com>
Cc: Victor Hafichuk <victor@thepathoftruth.com>
Subject: Re: Moon River Community FB Page

On Jul 19, 2022, at 8:46 PM, KylaRLambSPN <kylarlambtutt@gmail.com> wrote:

“Dude… stop… no one cares. You are extremely disconnected and rude. Excuse us from you rants thank you very much. End of conversation.”

Wow! “Dude,” yet. How original, how “connected.” And “no one cares?” Who says? She? Does she know? What if only one cares, and understands?

Who is this insolent, presumptuous, dismissive quick-speak without knowledge or understanding, and who speaks to elders, both spiritual and physical, people she doesn’t know, as she pleases? Isn’t that a bit foolhardy? Speak of subjects of Proverbs, chapter 1. Your day awaits not far away, Kyla. It’s here.

I’ve never met Kyla, she’s never met me, and I don’t believe either of us cares to meet the other, though I’m willing to meet and reason for good, if possible. Perhaps, you should find another neighborhood, Kyla. I was here first and intend to continue to do it some good, if possible, for the time I have left. How about you?

On the other hand, there was this reply to my same letter from a friendly neighbor:

From: Aaron H <aaron_hashyt@hotmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 20, 2022 5:01 PM
To: Victor Hafichuk <victor@thepathoftruth.com>
Subject: Re: Moon River Community FB Page

“Victor, 

Thanks for the read ! 

This country is full of snowflakes.. and the woke is what is wrong with this world. 

Thank you for speaking for freedoms and I appreciate  your strong voice in our community 

Aaron”

Thank you, Aaron. You are right, though you may not appreciate my identifying you as I appreciate your input and encouragement. My conscience before God is clear.

I’m naming names. It’s time “snowflakes” were melted with Antidotal heat born of the Light of Truth, and I’ve found that those appointed to melt them can do so most effectively by identifying them, and themselves, and speaking the Truth, so help me God. To be identified and neutralized, snowflakes must be brought into the Light. Watch them liquefy in the heat. It saves shuffling, and shoveling, too.

It’s evident Canada is fast being flushed down the toilet. And laws are being framed to destroy justice, condemn the innocent, and side with the guilty. Those of us who speak for justice and Truth will inevitably draw fire and pay a price. But they will also have a sure reward awaiting them that will more than compensate for their troubles. Just give it time. Light defeats darkness. Darkness has no right nor power to tell the sun what to do.

Now, on with this message in our neck of the woods to do good. I’ll begin with the horse paddocks and…

Miriam Dekker:

You and I have already talked of the horses and paddocks face-to-face. I write to you and others concerning the paddock situation as decent beings before God and neighbor, which can mutually prosper us in all things if we dare care and be fair.

If you ask by what authority I speak, it’s not by my own or anyone else’s, but God’s. This can be determined by the nature of the laws and principles I present as ordained by God since the beginning of time as delivered by messengers and by the Holy Scriptures, even at the cost of their lives.

As I speak to you, be my friend, and not my enemy. After all, I come as your friend. I’ve met you in person and you’ve earned my respect. I’d like to repay you for your willingness to be understanding and cooperative – this is not flattery to get my way; I mean it. One day, you said to me, “See, Victor, I’ve cleared away the horse manure from the path as you’ve asked.”  I much appreciated the attitude and response.

I present more information and perspective now concerning the paddocks that have occurred to me for our collective good. If you receive what I say, you’ll profit and be thankful. If not, we can be sadly disappointed. This is no threat, just the Inviolable Laws and Divine Ways expressed from above by which things work universally, some of which I’ve been fortunate and blessed to learn in my lifetime.

I come speaking somehow feeling that I’m addressing you from your past in the Netherlands and your family and past company. Whatever, no matter. You’ll know.

Stephen Harris has told me you had an agreement with him and the paddocks committee to clear Kush’s paddock free of charge. I assume it was in return for what you could salvage in lumber. Are these things true? If not, correct me – I’ll gladly acknowledge my misunderstanding.

Perhaps, yours was a more noble motive, like a favor to the community, to do it as a free-will service. Which would be an exceptional gesture. Such an example is Richard and Tracy Steeves who freely and generously mowed a community walking path. Other members have also contributed freely in various ways, such as the Grafs, Kronlunds, Dormaars, Jacobs, Brinks, Coxes, Van de Merwes, Hilliards, Rene Barendregt, Harrises, and several others. It happens! I include executive members’ spouses because, after all, they pay the price with their partners one way or the other.

On the other hand, we have those who use free contributions and voluntary services of their fellow community members but don’t lift a finger to help out, things like annually blowing out Aqua Luna sprinkler lines and maintaining the system. I was one of those taking and not giving, and now I’m ashamed of having been so selfish. I’m thankful others step in to help when needed or desired. I could name a few but I won’t; no need; everyone knows who they are.

Miriam, don’t let appearances deceive us to your detriment. It appears you took the valuable portion of the Kush paddock like the barnwood, and left the scrap for your neighbors to clean up. Stephen gave me to understand he assumed that the one they had the agreement with – he named no names, would understand it was their responsibility to clean the entire site properly for the value of materials gained. He said, “I would have thought they would have naturally understood,” (words to that effect). It didn’t happen; the good is gone and the mess remains to vex.

I’m assuming Steve didn’t think there was any need for such a stipulation. He realized he fell short of overseeing the duty without a clear understanding.

To be fair, I should ask you, “Did you not understand what was required of you as he told me?” Or did you think you could simply walk away with the good stuff and leave the scrap for the paddock people or even the rest of the MR Community to clean up without compensation? Would that be fair?

Is this how they deal with neighbors in Holland? I know they do, as they do everywhere in the world. I know the EU is down the sewer much in every way – socially, legally, economically, politically, religiously, and spiritually, with the US and Canada speeding swiftly in pursuit, if not outpacing it.

We are at the end. People, tragically, a lethal, unavoidable firestorm is hitting and hitting hard, determined from above, and it is inescapable unless we turn from our sin. Oh, yes, that dreaded word! With this MR paddock situation, it surely seems I’m proverbially “arranging the deck chairs on the Titanic” but I feel intent on addressing these social matters for whatever reason.

Call me small-minded, religious, self-righteous, petty, whatever. “For who has despised the day of small things?” declare the Scriptures – Zechariah 4:10.

No, not religion! There’s that dratted Book of Truth again; dammit! Well, there’s the problem right there, isn’t it! As Raymond Huppee said in so many words in response to my post and which I failed to retrieve before they were deleted from the MR Community FB page, “Religion is nice but it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.” This fellow has also objected in the past to the Light shining.

Regardless, Stephen declared the unfinished paddock cleanup was his fault for poor supervision and declared he would take care of it.

Stephen, are you committed or will you fail again through reluctance to “rock the boat” and offend? Laws are made for good to prevent the bad and promote order and benefit. Laws are meant to be made and implemented. Otherwise, there’s no use for making laws. Ignoring laws only makes a mockery of them. Those in charge fail their neighbors when they don’t follow through. Is that what you’ve done? 

Stephen had called me about all this because just the day before, Annette Tompkins had likely complained to him that I had asked her about the mess and what was being done about it. I tried talking to Annette nicely but it seems it wasn’t taken that way.

Instead, Annette was offended with me. No need to be. Not my fault. When I inquired about dealing with the Kush paddock situation at the June 29, 2022 AGM meeting, she and Yvonne Graf assured everyone that it “was taken care of.” So, I dropped it. Was it taken care of? Obviously, not.

At long last, and the community not being informed what was happening, I inquired again in December 2023, 1½ years later. Am I impatient? And who better to ask than the one I was told was the chair of the paddock committee, Annette Tompkins? I asked and she abruptly, rudely said it was no longer her, but your, responsibility, Miriam. Not very nice about it at all.

I said, “Annette, don’t walk away from me. You needn’t be rude about this.”

Her reply was a defiant, combative comeback, “Or else what?!”

I had to walk away. Later, she would falsely accuse me of threatening her. Wasn’t she the one threatening me?

Y’all, Steve, Miriam, Annette, and others, you ought to know that complications and troubles arise at every level and turn when people don’t follow up on responsibility and justice, because afraid to rock the social boat, being selfish and not give a damn, whether the matter be considered big or small. What happened to “getting honest,” “loving your neighbor,” “playing fair,” “give and it will be given to you,” and “being considerate, helpful, thoughtful, responsible, and nice, for real”?

Miriam, Stephen called the day after Annette’s call and asked me to leave it to him. I said I was willing to do so until I believed him when he said it was all his fault. He’s partly right, but I also see how you allegedly may have got him into trouble and let the community down. 

Am I accurate here or unfair to you? Are you willing to make things right? I think you have it in you, judging by the attitude I experienced with you. I hope you prove me right.

I appreciated the way you were willing to deal with the manure on the walking path, although it was only understandable that you should do so. That was not the attitude and example Annette displayed. And seeing she was stubborn, nasty, and disrespectful about it, she’s not getting off so easily now. As one sows, one reaps, multiplied. I will relate the surprising conversation I had with her later.

Miriam, I’m asking you to address the Kush paddock mess and not expect Stephen and a group of volunteers to do it. I think it’s your responsibility according to your alleged agreement with him and others. I’m hoping he’ll understand.

If you find people who are willing to help you, fine; good for them. That’s their business and yours.

Am I “telling you what to do?” No, I’m asking you to do the right thing. There is a difference.

True, there are more important matters facing us these days, but serious troubles begin with the small ones such as these and grow from there. If we don’t learn to be trusted and responsible for smaller matters, how can we be entrusted with greater ones? So, shouldn’t I show a concern for injustice and irresponsibility in my community? Is this not every tax-paying community member’s right, duty, and business? Or is it too late in these days for that? It is late, very late, to be sure.

I’m here to teach right and wrong to the end, as an earnest, hopefully well-meaning, voluntary, conscientious contributor. The need is there and somebody needs to do it. Who else but those knowing the Truth and are willing to speak it? I speak of true and serious matters.

(Stephen, you are wrong when you say it’s not my job.)

Besides, the paddock situation is much bigger and more serious than many Moon River citizens may realize. More on this later along with a proposal to be seriously considered and implemented. It’s time the MR community dealt with it after years of incompetent management, community frustration for a small privileged minority, and financial and social losses for all. Let’s be clear, I’m not blaming the MD – we at Moon River “Estates” must own it.

But before we discuss the final solution for the paddock dilemma, I’d like to discuss an evident example of the need for that final solution. It will be in the next issue.

Victor Hafichuk