Canada Day Weekend

This July weekend had great significance for me as a young lad. For us it was the real beginning of summer. School was closed and we were free as a bird. Yes we had our chores such as working in the garden and cleaning the hen house but most of our time was free. Free to go to the beach and swim, fish and boil those delicious creatures that lived in the ocean. Periwinkles, crabs and once in a while a lobster made our day. Our main joy was digging those clams and picking muscles off the rocks. All one needed for a treat was a can to boil them and the desire to satisfy your hunger.

Today I have a different point of view about our country. There has been a huge difference in the ethnic makeup of our population and I love the change. Our country is so much richer because of the diversity of our people and the new cultural advantages we have acquired. In Toronto alone there are a hundred cultures mixing together and one could actually attend a cultural activity every week if you cared.

We have been a wonderful example of how many peoples can live together in harmony. The negative ignorance which was brought on by prejudice is disappearing and our bill of rights guarantee us, all of us freedom to live without fear due to our differences of race, religion or sexual orientation. Our country is years ahead or was in human rights development. There is some undercurrents about which cause me some concern but I am confident we will not turn back the clock.

I live half a year in America and they are curious as to our way of life. Almost without exception they admire our country and caring attitude for the less fortunate.That too is under siege here at home but cooler heads will prevail.

With all our faults and differences we remain one of the most welcoming nations for our new citizens and a land with real opportunities for every person who truly seeks it. We are no longer a British and French country but one where we draw strength from many peoples and are recognized as one of the   countries where it is OK to keep your culture and still be Canadian.

So lets get going and celebrate being Canadian and share the weekend with friends and family and raise a glass to this wonderful land called CANADA.