A co-worker’s parents asked her about it and my coworker asked if I heard about. I think it’s spread further than you think.

The reality is that this blackout might not change the world, but it can send a message about how united people are.

“but at least we’re not as bad as the US” is Canada’s unofficial motto.

The other advice is solid, and I agree with it all as of this posting. I did want to focus on the money thing.

I think you should accept the money. Some people, particularly older generations, view money as sign of respect, and turning down is against their understanding of social protocol.

You could even use it to get her a nice gift (flowers, cards, gift basket, etc).