It is certainly okay to take a few minutes to think about the missteps of the past. You know, we used to hang people in this country—sometimes on very shaky evidence. We will apologize to them. They are not here to hear us. It is harder to think of aboriginal children, dying because of the way our ancestors treated them, buried in unmarked graves. Many died of European diseases to which they lacked immunity.
But after the passing of years, how can we sort the venal from the well-meaning? Do we just remove those ancestors from their plinths and mausoleums and consider the problem solved? Do we blame governments for their ill-considered actions? Do we castigate a church for the transgressions of perverts? Do we blame those with the over-sight for their lack of diligence?
And what do we achieve by blaming the dead?
Celebrating Canada Day is a celebration of life to be lived. In a country of promise and prosperity and opportunity and challenge, we are living a dream.
Let’s leave the dead to their eternity in peace. Let us live life to the fullest. Let us recognize our freedoms and share them willingly. Let us open the taps of immigration. We can offer opportunity to many more. And there are many who are worthy and in need.
And, if we have taken time to consider the past, let us also consider the future. Think of the type of politician we need. No demagogues, just people who care. We want politicians who are community leaders, not just followers. We want people who can make a contribution to our country. No ‘yes-persons’ need apply. We want those who can plan for our future and are not just mired in the errors of the past. We want to continue to be proud of our country of Canada.
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