Sixty years ago, Canadians decided they wanted a flag that was instantly recognizable and totally separate from the United Kingdom – something distinctively Canadian.
I have traveled the world with this image on my suitcases and found that there’s an instant recognition and welcome associated with being Canadian. Why? Well, I think it’s because the world see us as the peacekeepers and even saviors, stemming from our actions in World War II. Albeit, mostly because of our connection with the British Commonwealth; Canada entered the second World War on September 10, 1939 to fight the evils of Hitler. That was 2 years before the United States joined and only after Pearl Harbor. With a total population of less than 12 million, 1.1 million (ten percent of our population) Canadians served in World War II with the 3rd largest navy and 4th largest air force. We didn’t brag about it, but perhaps it’s time we did.
Since then Canada has taken a step back from war and typically entered only when our southern neighbors do – except for Vietnam, and that was a good call. We’ve contributed to the Korean War, the Persian Gulf, Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and the Red Sea Crisis. Admittedly Canada has neglected her military in the last decades. We’ve let the United States take the lead because they’ve become a military powerhouse and we’ve been the best of friends for 210 years. Canada has been there to help and support Americans through natural and unnatural disasters. Regardless of what happens politically, I’m confident that aid will continue.
Nevertheless, our neighbor’s Felon Leader and his minions have misconstrued Canadian behavior as a weakness. We are TRUE, NORTH, STRONG and FREE. He’s unknowingly awakening the Grizzly Bear.
Canadians might be quiet, polite, demure, and complacent when left alone. We even hibernate. Do not mistake these behaviors for weakness. When riled, we are massive, focused, intelligent, protective, and formidable. Don’t fool with the Canadian Grizzly Bear!
We’ve always been proud, but never so proud as we are today. We don’t want a trade war. We don’t want a war of any type. We want to be friends. We want peace. And, we will proudly come together as a nation to support our sovereignty, secure our borders, offer a hand in friendship and never, never become the 51st State.
Don’t fool with the Canadian Grizzly Bear!
Hindsight: My Journey 