Canada Day by Susan L.

For all we Canadians complain about the weather, the medical system, the school system, road repairs and pot holes, and of course taxes. We live in a great country where we have the ability to complain without fear. In the grand scheme of things, we are incredibly wealthy although the cost of living is high. Our social safety net, over burdened, cumbersome and difficult to navigate is nevertheless there when we need it. We have fresh, clean water. That in itself is a blessing beyond measure. Most medical care is free. Wow. We have plenty of access to green spaces, even in our cities. Our mosquitoes aren't deadly. Roads are plowed in winter. Trash is collected. Mail is delivered. Internet is available to all. We have the freedom to worship. We have the freedom to travel in and out of the country. Our police serve and protect. We have ambulances and firemen. Women can do that job if they want to! There is an astounding amount of food from all over the world in our grocery stores and food banks. We can grow our own in clean earth. It's even safe to dine on the food growing at the side of the road: fiddleheads, asparagus, leeks, apples, black and red raspberries, just to name a few. There's fish, too. A virtual feast! Yes. We have problems. Our treatment of aboriginal people needs to change. We have homeless. There have been terrible abuses of power that need to be put right. Yes, we have many problems...too many. Happy Birthday, Canada. I will pray for you and our leaders. "Save, Lord! May the King answer us when we call." PS 20:9