The Maple Leaf Forever

[kaffy_r]

G'Oh Canada!

I am ridiculously proud of being Canadian right now.

It's ridiculous, because I'm always proud of being a Canadian.

Ridiculous, because I'm not athletic in the least. In fact, I mistrust the culture of sports worship. Ridiculous, because I know how awful Olympic politics can be, how overheated and chemically-suspect the athletic events are. Ridiculous because so much in the world - war, injustice, scientific progress, the fight for good - demands my attention and heart, and an athletic event is way, way down the list, and should be.

And yet ... and yet, I'm so proud of the Olympic Games being in Vancouver. Our country is so beautiful, and we are welcoming the world tonight. The fact that our First Nations were a major part of the ceremonies, and that it was considered proper that they be considered just that - nations - brought tears to my eyes.

Do well, Canada. Treat our visitors well. Compete honorably. Make friends. Be Magnificent.

Comments

[maruad.livejournal.com]

I am somewhat boring and a little tradition with my national anthemns. I really do not like hearing the various strange renditions of the Star Spangled Banner that are performed before sporting events.

The worst rendition of Oh Canada I can remember was performed by Burton Cummings at a Winnipeg Jets iirc. Too bad because I do respect him for attempts to keep in contact with his old home town.

[kaffy_r]

Most of the time I appreciate a traditional anthem, too. I think the young girl's obvious passion and pride in being able to sing for her country overcame my doubts.