Reflecting upon a lifetime of trying to disrupt domestic and family violence

I’m in a contemplative mood at the moment. I recently reached the tender age of 65. For many people reaching this age comes with a degree of angst, uncertainty, and worry. I’ve taken a decent break from work to allow time to reflect on my future direction. 

I can never really see myself fully retiring from a lifelong passion for social justice in relation to gender. However, I can see myself slowing down and being more thoughtful about where to contribute best. I have been incredibly privileged to work in a field of practice, which has taught me a lot about both myself and the challenges that inherently come with masculinity. You can listen to Tori Cooke talk with me about my journey in the work further on in this month’s podcast episode. Finding the balance between accountability and engagement of men who use domestic and family violence is not an easy path to tread. Despite the issues that shape a person’s behaviour (trauma, adverse childhood experiences, social influences), it doesn’t have to define their future. 

I am passionate about the contribution that HMA will continue to make on an ongoing basis. We are actively looking for someone to purchase HMA with the goal of supporting the next step in its evolution. I hope that I will be able to continue to have a significant role in whatever that looks like. 

I have a quote on my wall: “The goal is not to live forever, the goal is to develop something that will.” Each of us has a short life, so as I say to my children, make each day count.

Ken McMaster

Comments are closed.