To the editor:
While watching TV clips of Canada's 144th birthday celebration, I was struck by the shared happiness beaming from the ethnically diverse faces of Canadians, especially Canada's newest citizens.
Our ancestral roots reach back into every corner of the world, and as we are often reminded, many of these corners continue to be shrouded by shadows and fears.
Having being born in Canada, my limited understanding of life without freedom comes from stories, images and my imagination. Hearing strangers say "Canada" with passion and reverence reminds me how lucky I am.
Indeed. July 1 is a time to celebrate, but it is also a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by others and a time to acknowledge our own responsibility for preserving this astonishingly beautiful country called Canada.
Lloyd Atkins
Vernon
