What We Hold Dear

This Canada Day…

There’s a lot of trouble in the world right now. It’s easy to feel the weight of it. And yet, here in Canada, many of us are fortunate—spared the worst, blessed with peace, space, and a kind of quiet resilience.

I know I’m one of the lucky ones. Not everyone in this country shares the same ease, the same safety, or the same chances that I continually enjoy. That truth sits with me, especially today. It doesn’t lessen my gratitude, but deepens it—addings a note of responsibility.

I see a robin gathering nesting material – the moss on a branch of our cherry tree – water droplets sparkling in the first light and a hummingbird hovering in mid-air—wings a blur, heart racing, held in that impossible stillness. I love these small fleeting moments. And it reminds me: there’s beauty in the small things. Joy isn’t always loud. And being proud of where we live can be quiet too—rooted in humility, in reflection, and in care for others.

No, we’re not perfect. But we are something distinct. And I don’t take that for granted.