A newcomer to Canada, I arrived into Toronto from Scotland on the 15th August 2001 the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady an auspicious date. My first day teaching at Regis College was the 9th September an inauspicious date with iconic images of death and destruction leaving an indelible imprint on the new millennium.

I taught class from 9-11am and because I had forgotten to give the students a break (I had been used to teaching 3 hour classes in the UK) we knew nothing of what was taking place south of the border until class was finished. Thereafter we were all following news outlets or phoning friends and relatives. It was a graphic and anxious entry into life in a different country far from home.

Now fifteen years later, I am a Canadian citizen as well as retaining my first nationality. As I looked back over these years I decided to focus my attention on the number 150 and form my reflections accordingly.

One – Canada is clearly an enormous country with vast natural beauty, Atlantic ocean to western sea; great lakes to frozen tundra; ranging from the grandeur of the Rockies to the resonant countryside of the Maritimes Nova Scotia (I often say I am from Old Scotia!) and Newfoundland; and the vast plains of Saskatchewan. The scope of diversity encompasses first nations ancient cultures to the bustle of digital complex city life.

Five -major factors that have made me proud to be a Canadian

1. People from all parts of the world have sought a new life in Canada and formed a nation of people who value their diversity. On the streets of Toronto one can find ethnic food and culture from every part of the world. The country of many immigrants has also shown a willingness to give a home to many more. As borders were shut and gates closed to refugees Canada continued to keep open a door for entry. Becoming Neighbours is one of the most impressive organizations assisting new immigrants here in the Toronto area.

2. The identification of Canada with peace-making and the desire to promote peace around the world. There is a certain encouragement I suggest of the biblical virtue of forbearance.

3. An appreciation of the natural beauty so evident in the land where Fall extols the colour of the maple leaf the emblem of the country. The commitment to ecological and  environmental issues and climate change for the benefit of the planet and future generations.

4. An educational system and a health care system, pioneered by religious congregations, which continues to provide quality education and health care according to need and not according to wealth.

5. An openness and enthusiasm amongst students who engage in their university studies with a commitment and a desire to learn, to grow and a passion to engage the world with a faith that also does justice and with a willingness to serve others.

Zero  – when I have been sad to be a Canadian

When a virtue of tolerance has become so tolerant that the question arises is there anything that cannot be tolerated – except those who adhere to what may be seen as traditional religious beliefs? Here intolerance abounds. When the right to live or die is not just seen as an individual human right but as a right legally enforced, such that health care professionals are coerced against their consciences.

Amidst it all I have grown to love this country which welcomed me as a new citizen, the ‘ordinary’ people of Canada who have big hearts and generous compassion.  Happy 150th Birthday O Canada!