I must be getting grumpy when it comes to Canadian political matters or I was not hearing well when I heard a quick shift to the right last eve when our Prime Minister was interviewed. It appears that the question about Canada's status in the world has been greatly enhanced because we were becoming a military power. Yes we did take a role in the fight against terrorism and have spent some ninety billion dollars equipping our forces with modern tools for warfare. Our soldiers should have the very best when our governments puts them in harms way.
The question that really hit home for me was why our status has been raised. Is it because we like the American armed forces have power because of their mighty war machine or because we are recognized for our contribution to world peace. Back a few years ago we as Canadians could travel anywhere on the globe and be recognized for our peace keeping ability. we were loved for our contributions to world health and green policies.
Since we have moved to the right we have given up our place in breaking our agreements in regards to green house gases and are berated for our policies on the exporting of death dealing asbestos. We are even being considered for sancions by some countries because of these policies. How far we have travelled because of our leaders giving way and accepting the copy cat foreign policies of America.
We have become a much more powerful military country but at what cost. The cost of the war alone could have given every young Canadian a free university education. These young, educated people could lead the world in technology and we would be recognized for our ability to out perform or at least compete with the rest of the the world. I guess I just liked it when I knew being Canadian meant something more than being part of that power struggle which garnishes you hate and danger from the third world. We do so much good as a country and should carve our reputation built on being a peace loving nation and a Stewart of our environment.
Agreed! I am afraid with each passing year of this "new" international image we have carved for ourselves we will lose a little more of that unique essence of what it truly means to be Canadian. Keep using your voice Dad! I notice that it gets louder and stronger with each passing year!
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