And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing. Genesis 12:2
During a visit some years ago to southern Maine, my daughter became engaged in conversation with a couple about the health care system in Canada. This couple was concerned about a growing interest in the United States to move toward a socialized medicine system such as Canada has. This couple was terrified of the possibility of such a change, because they had been brainwashed by the American medical and insurance industries. Those industries don’t want people to know that health care in Canada is vastly superior, absolutely inclusive, and far less expensive than the exclusive and wasteful system that persists in the United States. No Canadian would ever trade health care systems with our neighbour to the south. With all its warts and difficulties, health care in Canada is but one of the great blessings of our glorious nation.
As we pause today on Canada’s birthday, we recognize that, just as Abraham and his offspring became a great blessing to the world, so too does Canada’s presence in the community of nations represent a blessing to all. Canadians have been the originators and the leaders in peacekeeping in the world. Canadian innovations have enhanced endeavours throughout the world, and even in space. Canadians have provided brilliant minds and willing efforts everywhere we have gone.
Much of the world has sweltered in recent years in economic recession, and while Canada is not immune to such problems, we are not as affected as most. Canadian insight, initiative, and ability has helped to retain a strong level of economic activity. The beaver with its industrious nature is a fitting symbol for Canada. By our strength and resources, we remain a help, not a hindrance or drain, to those around us. Canadians are more industrious, more intelligent, more tolerant, and more resourceful than most other nations, and as such, we are truly a blessing. We are a humble people with far less to be humble about than others.
Scrapping Canada Day celebrations this year is a deeply misguided decision. Atrocities committed in the past should be remembered, but should not be force-fed as shame on those of us who did not and never would commit such deeds. Depriving us of enjoying all that is right on a day that we should celebrate is simply wrong.
Today is a good day to give thanks to God for allowing us to live and work in the True North Strong and Free. Well might we sing, The Maple Leaf Forever! –Jim MacIntosh