Monday, March 30, 2009 at 9:10PM | in Other True patriot love
I've never considered myself to be a nationalist, or even much of a patriot, but spending several years away from Canada has somehow kindled (or reminded me of) a sense of cultural affinity with the country of my birth and pride for what it stands for.I have just arrived in Ottawa for a series of job interviews with the federal government. Soon after checking into my hotel, I took a short walk up Elgin Street to admire the Parliament Buildings. To my surprise, at 8pm the gates were still open and I could walk along the wide boulevard pathway that runs up a flight of stairs to the doors of the House of Commons, under the Peace Tower.
I walked slowly and in awe, with my held tilted back and admiring the small flags that quietly proclaimed the allegiance of those buildings - to a united country and to the cause of peace. I felt proud of my country, aware of its historical missteps but nevertheless an often principled actor in world affairs. After a short walk of adoration, I paused. At the foot of the pathway is the Centennial Flame, lit by our Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson to celebrate 100 years of Confederation - a testament to the unity of the Canadian provinces and between French and English Canada. I stood in front of the flame, with its heat flickering on my face. In a moment of silence I murmured a prayer in remembrance of Pearson, the cause of peace, and for confirmation in the interviews I'll be undertaking in the next few days.
As I was preparing for a contemplative stroll back to my hotel, four people came walking down the path - away from the House of Commons and towards the flame. I stared at one of the familiar faces and finally uttered: "Suzie, is that you?" It was Suzie Tamas, the Director of Government Relations for the Baha'i Community of Canada, and she was with three other Baha'is. They had just left the public gallery after watching an hour-long debate in Parliament on a motion to condemn the Iranian government's treatment of the Baha'is. The debate culminated in a unanimous vote in favour of the resolution. Yet another reason why today, I am especially proud to be a citizen of this country.
*Photo credit: Joel Bedford
Monday, March 30, 2009 at 9:10PM | in Other 
Reader Comments (7)
That was a really nice post, Geoff. As this was going on, the Association for Baha'i Studies at the University of Guelph was hosting a coffee house/awareness raising event about the denial of higher education to Baha'is in Iran. There must have been some good forces flying around Ontario this evening! Good luck.
Interesting post, Geoff, and welcome to Ottawa!
What I found especially intriguing about the Parliament buildings on my first evening here back in September, was that my dad, my mom and I were able to walk around the entire property with one hand on the brick walls of our parliament buildings.
This ability was interesting to me because I realized that it demonstrates the faith our government has in the Canadian people.
If you've noticed, the U.S. Embassy down the street has three sets of blockades set up, one which cuts off an entire lane of downtown traffic.
Canadian protestors can demonstrate on the lawns of our parliament buildings, and can enter them if they so choose. Protestors outside the White House are held back by security and gates.
Just food for thought, but your post reminded me of what I felt when I took the same stroll some 7 months ago.
Dear Geoff,
Glad you arrived safely and still had the energy to go for a walk after a long flight!
I think you have highlighted a very good reason to have pride in your country!
Hi Geoff, glad to hear you might be back in the country and working on the "inside". Many people comment that Ottawa has a cold, sterile atmosphere, but I think its loveliness--not grandeur--represents our country's attitude just fine.
My wife and I have visited Toronto several times since 1968, and have always felt like global citizens. We live only 1 1/2 hours southwest of Thunder Bay on Lake Superior. It's a different ethnic mix in Thunder Bay. The political heritage we enjoy is lunch at the Hoito Cafe, a former Communist Union Hall that still guarantees a good meal for $4.
Have not been to Ottawa. The photo you posted is beautiful. There is a historic connection to our neighborhood there too; via the fur trading post at North Bay.
I noticed the Canadian Parliament resolution on the Baha'i World News service.
The proceedings in the Parliament were nothing short of extraordinary. Truly a cause to love our country - even from as far away as the Democratic Republic of Congo! When most of the news (or what the broadcasters decide to share with us) is so negative and depressing, this is a poignant reminder that we really are an "ever-advancing civilization".
It is hard for me to contain my excitement at this development! Great blog btw. Once you get here if you need anything at all give me a call and it will be taken care of.
best,
Martin