Canada, July 2025

  July 1st is Canada Day, originally called Dominion Day.  It’s a statutory holiday in Canada and a day to celebrate Canada’s Birthday.  We all recognize the commemoration of Confederation in 1867, when the British North America Act united several provinces into the Dominion of Canada.  This year is the 158th anniversary of Confederation.  

There are many ways to approach this topic.  Originally, I started writing about Canada from a historical point of view.  We have had a number of highs and lows in our history.  Rehashing them here will not change the past.  We are what we are because of those highs and lows.  

We have developed a mindset in our country that allows for personal freedoms. Many people have stood up for what they believe in.  Women fought for the vote and equity in the workplace; Natives have fought for reconciliation, and our Gay Community has strived for recognition and acceptance.  Immigrants are celebrated for who they are, not asked to change their customs and ideals, as long as those ideals allow for personal freedoms.  We aren’t perfect as we are still working on all these things, but we are miles ahead of some countries in our world.  

As I am aging, I am more and more grateful for the healthcare system we all have unlimited access to, and the community supports that can be applied for to help us recover and stay in our own homes.  My grandchildren have opportunities for higher education like never before.  Whether you want to learn a trade, attend university or college, or find a job right out of secondary school, these opportunities are there if you have the ambition to go for it. 

The piece of artwork I have attached to this blog is called “From Sea To Sea To Sea”.  In it, you will see my great niece, who is a member of the RCMP.  She is athletic and smart and pursued her dream.  She serves our country in her role as an RCMP officer.  She and all her fellow law enforcement officers deserve recognition for their dedication to the safety and welfare of all Canadians.  Military and Provincial Police fall under this umbrella.  We thank you!

We are not a perfect country, but we are pretty darn good in my eyes.  When I hear O Canada, I always sing along with tears in my eyes.  As far as I am concerned, I live in the greatest country in the world.  It sure can get cold in the winter, but I have a home that is warm, food to eat, and many activities to participate in within my community if I wish to take part.  Have I told you about learning to play Mahjong this winter and playing cards at the Seniors Centre?  

This blog is about my gratitude for being a Canadian.  Celebrate our great country and all the people in it.