'Legend' of Canada

Growing up, I was imbued with a powerful legend of Canada – a nation where, when faced with threats to its very being, millions of its citizens would rise as one to defend it.

This wasn't a story of past battles alone but a living ideal of the Canadian spirit, a deep-seated commitment to our sovereignty.

It was that very belief that compelled me to enlist in the armed forces when the United States invoked Article 5 of the NATO agreement following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. I felt a profound obligation to stand alongside our allies, to demonstrate Canada's commitment was not just words, but action.

I don't know the exact number of Canadians who answered that call but I sincerely hope our collective response was a testament to that enduring legend.

My understanding of Canada's story, however, has become more nuanced over time. Attending progressive schools, I learned early on about the devastating impact of colonization on First Nations communities, alongside the narratives of early settlers and their undeniable resilience in building this nation.

It was during basic training, in a lecture on residential schools, that I was struck by how unfamiliar and deeply disturbing this history was to many of my fellow recruits. This stark contrast between my own education and theirs highlighted a significant gap in our shared understanding of Canada's past.

This experience led me to reflect on what it truly means to be Canadian. Is it solely about defending our borders against external threats? Or does it also encompass confronting the injustices within our own history and working towards a more equitable future for all who call this land home?

Perhaps the Canadian legend isn't just about a reactive defence but an active commitment to upholding the values of fairness, respect, and reconciliation.

I find myself questioning whether I am an idealist for believing in the power of Canadians to shape a better future, or simply a patriot who holds a deep love for this land and its potential. Maybe the two are not mutually exclusive.

Perhaps the truest form of patriotism lies in striving to make the legendary Canada we envision a tangible reality, one where we not only stand united against external challenges but also work together to heal the wounds of the past and build a more just and inclusive nation for all.

Raymond Shipmaker, Kelowna