Tag: life
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Security Is More Than Locks and Cameras – It’s About People
When most people hear the word security, they picture doors, locks, cameras, and alarms. These tools are essential, but they’re only part of the story. True security is not just about physical barriers—it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe, respected, and valued. The Human Element of Security Security is often seen as a…
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The hardest battles are fought behind closed doors—where no one sees the tears.
When you’re raising children with special needs, the fight isn’t just hard—it’s relentless. My wife and I lived that reality for years. There were nights we sat in our bedroom, away from where the kids could see, crying quietly because we didn’t know if we could keep going. But we did. We faced: Every meeting…
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Pushing Forward—Even When the Odds Are Against You
Pushing Forward—Even When the Odds Are Against You Recently, I received some tough news: my goal of joining the Canadian Armed Forces Cadet Instructor Cadre as an officer may not be possible due to medical concerns. It was a hard pill to swallow. This is something I’ve worked toward with passion and purpose, and hearing…
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Building Bridges: Creating Safe and Peaceful Communities for All
In today’s world, where divisions often run deep—across politics, religion, and race—the need to build bridges of understanding and compassion is more vital than ever. True community is not defined by uniformity, but by unity in diversity. It’s a space where people of all backgrounds can feel safe, respected, and valued. My career in security,…
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Lighting the Way: Why I Started NorthStar Perspectives
Every journey begins with a question. Mine was simple: What happened to respect? After decades in the security industry, working alongside people from all walks of life—many of whom became like family—I’ve seen the best and worst of human interaction. I’ve witnessed leadership that inspires, and leadership that discourages. I’ve seen communication build bridges, and…
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When Leadership Hurts: Navigating Disagreement in a Community That Feels Like Family
In the security world—and especially in volunteer-driven communities—relationships often run deeper than job titles. We work side by side, share meals, support each other through life’s challenges. Over time, colleagues become friends, and friends become like family. But what happens when someone in that “family”—especially someone in a leadership role—starts setting poor examples? It’s one…
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From Pepper Spray to Verbal Judo: My Journey in Security
In 1999, I stepped into the world of security with Canstar Security Services. A friend recommended the job because a friend of his owned the company. That simple connection launched a career that has shaped who I am today. I started in industrial security, then moved into retail at Hazelton Lanes. It was there that…
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