One day after our 137th birthday we scour the newspapers for reports on all that is Canadian. We find that across this fine land, even in those parts still bitter about the most recent electoral count, things began to return to normalcy.
Never an overwhelming spectacle the day dedicated to Canada is spent much like it was in Podunk, with a gathering at your local park. It’s a simple event, not overly organized, cobbled together with a spirit of shared celebration. There’s a band, a few singers, some cake, a flag or two for the kids, some games and lots and lots of food. We cautiously sing or in most cases mouth the words to O Canada, some politician or another will make a speech, generally listened to by few, for this is really not a day of politics, but rather one of goodwill. From East to West, North to South we gathered, some will have reflected on their good fortune for the nation they live in, others would just be glad to have the day off from work.
The day will have ended in many places with the spectacle of fireworks, always an eye opening celebration that brings the day to a conclusion. Somewhere along the way you may have waved a flag, sang a song or just people watched. Wherever you were the Diaspora that is Canada would be in front of you, for the most part we carry on, warts and worries, concerns and glories. We did it today, and God willing we’ll share it again in 365 days.
The beauty of this land is that the differences, while sometimes exasperatingly clear, never seem to detract from the genius of the whole. The following links lead you to some of the things that make Canada a great land, if in doubt check around this troubled world and try to find a place you would rather live in. Don't take too much time, there's none to be found. We may complain, express indignation and occasionally throw our hands up in frustration, but it’s an intoxicating mix this land provides, drink it up and enjoy.
The bond that ties this land
The man on the hill attends a party
Celebrating a great nation
Waving the flag
Our adolescent years
The key is to know each other
A place for Haligonians to gather
A double celebration
Get out and see something
Eat to your way across Canada
Test your Canadiana
Do well on that one, take another!
Take a tour of Canada Day festivities
Can't get to the hill, check it out here
It's Canadian to be Hip!
The Sultan says hello
Peggers know how to party
Face painting and flags
The tapestry we call home
Parades and Packing
Canada Day with the Aussies
Canada from the cottage
A newcomers view
Salmon fest at Steveston
Taking time to give thought to those who gave us our freedom
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