It’s Canada Day- July 1

-and I’m proud to be Canadian!!!!!!!

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A big part of my journey is because I live in a country that I love, and that is tolerant! I am Canadian by birth, blood and choice.

I have been fortunate to have worked for some great multi-nationals and to have traveled extensively. I live in Canada’s most ethnically diverse city with a full 68% of the population being born outside of Canada. I’d be shocked if we were not, here in Markham, Ontario, one of the most diverse cities in the world.

That in itself is a statement about the inclusive nature of Canada. We are a country the world came to visit, and chose as home.

There are many things that could be better about my native land, but tell me where there is perfection?

I love the freedom I have to believe as I want, to raise children in a good school system, the respect the vast majority of Canadians have for law and order and the respect shown to others. I love having 4 distinct seasons (although winter is tougher as I age). I love the ability I have to grow as a person and to express myself freely. I even love paying taxes. I am responsible for the abundance we have and for contributing to the well being of others.

To the unenlightened, Canada is very different and distinct from the US. They are neighbors, but I live in Canada by choice. I have had opportunities to live south; for me that was not worth the trade offs!

We have been an independent country since 1867, and I know from experience that people are shocked when they learn how many Canadians have made a huge impact on the world. It was a Canadian who gave the world basketball, the telephone, polio vaccine and the Captain of the Starship Enterprise was Canadian! The list is endless.

So today I express gratitude and pride for having the good fortune to have been born, raised, and home based in Canada. I am proud of my homeland and happy to celebrate another birthday of confederation!!

While I am fortunate to have clients that I mentor and coach around the world, the training and learning I have been given, and values I have, are that of a humble, small but great nation. Canada, my home and native land!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CANADA!!