Canada Day

Today, July 1, is Canada Day. it used to be called "Dominion Day" The dominion of Canada stretched from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean to the Arctic Ocean. This was a Biblical reference which did not sit well with some of our rulers so we now have Canada Day. 

Our country is 142 years old. I know this is young when compared with other countries in the world but something to celebrate nonetheless.

Canada is a huge country and we are reminded of this every time we drove out to Calgary to see our children. We have driven right to the west coast in British Columbia but, for some reason, we have never been to the Atlantic Ocean yet. Perhaps next year. Just because of its diversity, it has to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

We have many strengths. We are not perfect but we try very hard to be accepting of people from all walks of life. We do have racism here but it is muted and truly anyone can become whatever they are suited for if they have determination and grit.

Our medicare is among the best in the world. Yes, we do have long wait times for some procedures but at least you do not have to go bankrupt when you become ill or old. 

We have our fair share of scoundrels but generally as a country, we are very compassionate and caring when tragedy hits. Many people I know have "adopted" youngsters overseas to try to give them a better life.

We have not treated our aboriginal people at all well and this is our country's biggest shame. There are those who are working very hard to correct this. Throwing money at a situation is not always the best answer but using funds to improve basic living conditions is just a start.

We have a great deal of freedom in this country as well. You can worship, vote, work and play as you wish as long as you follow the laws of the land - which are very liberal -  and respect other people.

There is no place on earth that I would rather live and that's the highest praise I can give.

Happy Birthday, my beloved country!