I have lived most of my life in Mexico, where outpourings of love for country are common. On festive days, music blares, tequila flows and food is consumed with absolutely no concern for the heart’s arteries. All ages dress up in crazy costumes and silly hats, hugs and kisses for everyone – I love it!
Canadians are known for wearing maple leaf lapel pins and flying their flag on the front lawn. In the spirit of solidarity, they are fiercely devoted to their own musicians, celebrities, and Tim Hortons. They can get worked up at hockey games, but otherwise, Canadians are as prudent as their politics.
Not yesterday though! To celebrate Canada 150, I saw a fun-loving, collective show of patriotism such as I never imagined could take place in this country. The same funky clothing and headgear (but red & white, not tricolor), loud music, uninhibited dancing and fireworks all along the horizon – I had such a great day!
CHANGES IN OUR LIVES 
Love the Suspension Bridge photo!
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Isn’t it great!
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I spent much of yesterday afternoon at a Canada Day picnic in my neighbourhood in downtown Toronto, my country´s largest city of over 2.5 million people. It was amazing to see so many different nationalities out celebrating their new country. Fireworks have been going every night since Friday and it is unfortunate I cannot see them from my building. At one time had an excellent view of the CN Tower which was a joy to view but it has been blocked within the past two years by a forest of high-rise condos. Much as I love the convenience and options offered by living in the big city that is a dark side, but as they say no place is bliss.
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Hi Sharon… yes this is a great country. Watching the new Canadians and hearing their heartfelt testimonies throughout the weekend brought tears to my eyes. One woman from Nigeria talked about how grateful she is to be able to walk out her door… and know that she will be coming back later on. Canada is a wonderful example of good will… not a perfect country, but it sure tries to be.
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While we may be a tad on the reserved side vis-a-vis our neighbours to the south, Canadians are known and respected all over the world for their open friendliness and welcoming environment.
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You’re right Sharon. Canada is a welcoming country. The diversity I see all around me is quite amazing – people from all over the world live here, In the streets, they smile and I do too.
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That photo of the RCMP,stretched across the Suspension bridge, is stunning! Stretched across the span of years too. I love that reminder!
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Yes it is a great picure, isn’t it? I have not visited the Capilano Suspension Bridge in years… maybe we could go, if we see each other in Vancouver this fall.
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PS, I need to read Magic Made in Mexico again, now that I live here!
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I wonder if you still have your copy? If not I have one. I think the book still has much to offer new intrnational residents in Mexico, I would like to revise and update it … so many projects – so little time! But I hear you have a new edition of your ABC book coming soon. Good for you!
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