Canada Day

Today is Canada Day, the anniversary of Canadian Confederation in 1867. Less exciting than Independence Day, but still an important moment.

Like all things that look towards the past, the church of woke is working hard on turning a celebration of the principles of the past into a moment of shame and a turn to a new “Progressive” future.

I’ve never been super excited about embracing nationalism or building an identity around the government that claims the soil you were born on, however, I do think July 1st and July 4th are moments to reflect on the principles that lead to the birth of new nations–countries that put liberty and individual rights first–and the sacrifices and courage of the men and women who created our families here.

Three of my grandparents were born abroad, in Scotland, England, and Italy and one in Canada to Irish parents. All of them left home, friends, and family, not for fun, but to find a place where they could work, live, and grow their families.

My grandparents didn’t move to Canada searching for government-run healthcare, or welfare programs, or government-subsidized universities. They came looking for a place where they could work and create a good life for their families.

My hesitation in embracing these holidays in the past came from disagreeing with the idea that we should feel pride in a flag or in the accomplishments of someone else who wears it but has no connection to us. The idea is that you should feel better than others because of the soil you were born on.

Even worse though is the idea that you should feel shame. The goal of many today is to teach kids that being from a nation that embraced liberty and individual rights is something you should a collective sense of guilt and shame for.

People from all over the world made huge sacrifices and incredible journeys across continents and oceans to create a life for their families in countries where life could thrive. They came because they believed in themselves and they believed in the ideas and principles behind our nations.

There are many moments in the past and present-day where the principles of our nations have been betrayed. But the goal of those who want you to feel guilt and shame are not to re-align with our principles, but instead to forget them entirely.

Once they convince you to feel shame for where you come from, they can lead you anywhere, even right into hell.

Our nations were created as a refutation of the idea that individuals can’t govern and provide for themselves. Millions of strong courageous individuals from around the world believed they could and came here to start anew.

On July 1st and July 4th it is fun to launch fireworks, drink, and BBQ with friends, but it is worth remembering the individuals that brought your family here and the individuals that fought to create nations built on principles. To honor their spirit, celebrate their courage, and once again embrace their ideals.