To the beautiful soul I shared a drink with at the airport, a seat in the rocking chairs and all those beautiful moments in between. I may never see you again, but the imprint you had on me will stay with me always. I want to stay with you in that other world.
—Rock Girl

Growing up in Ontario and raised by a well-read and well-travelled family, I was always encouraged to travel somewhere alone, where I had never been before and to live there for awhile. You know? Really do some soul searching and rediscover myself all over again while learning to love myself even more. Truthfully, in the past I secretly despised myself and others for whining and complaining over the things that would not matter five minutes from now. And as most people know, us Ontario people "Love to Bitch." But I have no complaints about Nova Scotia.

Honestly, I have been making up excuses not to leave here because every time I get teary eyed, and I never get teary eyed about leaving a place or a person ever. There are many wonderful and inspirational people who all struck a chord with me one way or another, and suddenly I did not feel alone in this world. Then after a while I was able to actually focus on the good in myself so I could eventually love myself more and not settle for less.

Yes, sure I messed up and had blunders on the way. But I am "Ontario shameless" like that and own my shit. You guys should too. You are too modest and all of you deserve so much better. From my friends to my foes, I love you all and will miss you whenever I leave the province.
—T.

You don't need to keep leaving me treats and greeting cards in my doorway, I'm grateful to simply be alongside you.
—LunchButt

Not too long ago, I purchased a pair of Ralph Lauren sneakers from Winners in Mic Mac Mall. About half an hour after leaving the mall I noticed the shoes were not with me in my car. I quickly realized my stupidity—I had left them on top of the car and must've driven away with them still on the roof with the receipt inside! I zoomed back to the mall and was looking frantically through the parking lot, in the ditches and went to lost and found in the mall. Nothing.

Made my way to Winners, and lo and behold they were brought back by an older gentleman! You left your business card inside and I wanted to contact you to personally thank you, but when I got home it was nowhere to be found in the bag. What you don't realize is, that was my birthday present I bought for myself with my birthday money, and it was my birthday. Again, THANK YOU!
—Happy Birthday Girl

Thanks again for being the right kind of weirdo! I've had the most emotionally draining week, and you made everything seem a little less bitter. If I weren't happily coupled I would have gladly let you hit on me. Perhaps in another dimension my doppleganger gave you a ride home and her number. In this dimension, I thank you for brightening my night and being a complete gentleman.
—She With The Moves (And The Clumsy Twirl)

I know you're completely off limits, but I can't stop thinking about you. I realize I don't talk to you much, but there's a reason for my silence: You render me tongue-tied with one glance. Sorry for being so abrupt yesterday when you approached me. I'm a complete dork around men I find attractive.You're the first guy I've had an interest in in almost three years, and I'm kinda rusty. I know I don't have a hope in hell with someone like you, but a girl can dream.Thanks for making work tolerable with your dark, brooding, sarcastic presence. You're fine as hell—but you already know that.
—Old enough to know better

Thank you for joining me on that empty dance-floor over a decade ago. If it wasn't for your sense of adventure, we wouldn't be here today. —French Canadian

To the shark-suited guitar-playing guy and his amazing entourage on Inglis Street on Bluenose marathon Sunday: thank you! Your singing and dancing gave me a well-needed boost to climb that hill during the marathon. It cheered me up for several kilometres and I still smile just thinking about it! You guys rock!
—Sweaty McRedface

I moved to a seat beside you at the bar to watch the final match of a rugby game on a Saturday afternoon. As time passed and we had a few brief exchanges about the game, you shared a pic of your healing dog Luna and the experiences you have together. You also shared that you were treating the guy beside you to a Mooseheads game as he was a good person that you employ. You commented about having a good life and giving back. "Give and you shall receive," was my comment back.

We did not even share our names yet you shared a bit of yourself so openly with me. It brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face and my hope in writing this is that the universe will share this with you...there are GOOD PEOPLE out there and you are one of them, kind sir!

I am truly grateful for that brief exchange as it resonated with my heart and soul. To everyone else reading this: Just be open in the moment as you never know the story a stranger beside you may share and the positive impact that it can have. Share a story, make a difference each day, give back, smile.
—Be the change

To the girl with the yellow bikini top and short shorts walking down Portland Street today giving zero fucks: I love you! You rock! Admiring your body confidence!
—Overheating Girl in Jeans