Wanting what we already have.

In this overindulgent, selfish world, many of us cannot see what is already in front of us and Rob Ford is no exception. 

Mr. Ford is pushing to turn the Toronto docklands into a developer's dream of malls and hotels and amusement parks.  But we already have a bunch of those on the water in Toronto right now.  We have Ontario Place -- in which we aleady have amusement park rides and an IMAX theatre.  Right on the water.  We already have the Eaton's Centre, right in the heart of the city.  For that matter, if one wanted to develop a permanent amusement park, why not do it on the site of the Exhibition, a blank tarmac that sits empty most of the year?

What don't we have, though?  What don't many world class cities have?  What about a livable green space with great restaurants and clubs right on the water.  What about hiking trails --- hiking trails!!?!! --- right in the heart of the city.  A low carbon footprint.  Parks, beaches....

It would be an exceptional space.  What space in cities will - must - become if we are to survive.  A space in which we invest in our humanity, not in a new pair of sneakers that we never use.  Not just another mall.