What makes a Canadian, a Canadian?
Canada, eh?
Over the holidays we got to talking about Canada and what makes a Canadian. Our conversation ranged from silly to serious but there was agreement that the Canada we live in today doesn’t look or feel like the Canada of our youth. Immigration policy has changed the face of Canada.
Violent, destructive student protests in support of Middle Eastern terrorists didn’t happen when we were on campus in the 70s.
The “Joe Canada” rant from 2000 was distinctly Canadian combining humour with pride to distinguish Canadians from our American neighbours.
The political narrative over the past ten years has been that Canadians don’t have an identity. We became everything to everyone.
Canadian Qualities
What qualities do you think make up a Canadian?
The Maple Leafs or the Maple Leaf?
Tim Horton’s coffee?
Beer?
Multicultural food?
Legalization of marijuana?
Red and black plaid shirts?
Maple Syrup?
Love/hate for Nickleback?
Eh?
Or is it, “Sorry”?
Here’s what ChatGPT came up with for the top ten qualities of a Canadian.
Top Ten Qualities
- Civility and Respect for Rules
- There’s a general respect for rules, laws, and societal structures, which contributes to a well-functioning society.
- Inclusivity and Tolerance
- Canadians are generally open-minded and welcoming, valuing diversity and fostering an environment of inclusivity and acceptance.
- Politeness and Courtesy
- It’s common to hear expressions like “sorry,” “please,” and “thank you” used frequently in everyday conversations. This kindness and respect extend not only to friends and family but also to strangers and even in challenging situations.
- Kindness and Generosity
- Canadians generally value compassion and service to others.
- Humility
- Canadians are often self-effacing and avoid drawing attention to themselves or their accomplishments. This humility is closely tied to the desire to maintain harmony and avoid arrogance.
6-10
- Adaptability and Resilience
- Canadians deal with long winters, challenging landscapes, and varying conditions, which has shaped a resourceful and strong-willed populace.
- Love for Nature and the Outdoors
- Many Canadians enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, canoeing, and camping, and there is a widespread belief in the importance of preserving nature for future generations.
- Sense of Community and Teamwork
- This sense of togetherness is reflected in policies like universal healthcare and social safety nets, which prioritize the welfare of all citizens.
- Appreciation for Humor
- Canadian humor is often characterized by self-deprecation, wit, and irony. Canadians enjoy using humor to navigate difficult situations and bond with others.
- Patriotism with Modesty
- While Canadians take pride in their country, their patriotism is often understated. Canadian patriotism is subtle and based on pride in their history, values, and accomplishments.
What do you think? What stands out to you on the list? Are there some qualities some you would add?
Please join the conversation and post a comment below. Thank you.
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Good Morning Pastor Bob…I enjoyed today’s blog. I am the first generation Canadian…my parents immigrated from Canton, China. (Known now as Guangzhou…the mandarin translation.) All of my family immigrated here…great grandparents, grandparents, etc. it was not an easy journey. The “Chinese Exclusion Act”, The Head Tax, some of my relatives helped build the railway & lived to tell the tale…a lot of their friends….not so fortunate. Sent to their deaths with explosives to get the railway able to tunnel through mountains. I recently visited a display at a gallery ..on the Legislative grounds about the history of Chinese immigration in Canada. It was very interesting…but, I was familiar with most of the stories from my own family. I am a very proud Edmontonian & Canadian. I cannot think of a better place that I could have raised my children and also fortunate enough to grow up here. My children are “halfers”…which is not an insult or offensive. That’s what they are…they are half Chinese & half Scottish. Scots that also immigrated to PEI from Apple Cross, Scotland. So, everyone immigrated here with the exception of the “Indigenous peoples”. (First Nations, Métis, & Inuit.)
I am so proud to be Canadian…considering what is happening just across our borders to the south of us. So disturbing & divisive.
Thank you for sharing your blog with us…it reminds me to be grateful to live in this country. Happy New Year to you & yours. Wishing you Health, Happiness & Prosperity in 2025. ❤️
I appreciate what AI came up with for us as Canadians. They are encouraging characteristics to hold on to.
Yet there is one that has resulted somewhat because of our tolerance and even humility. It’s found at Proverbs 25:26
“Like a muddied spring or a polluted well are the righteous who give way to the wicked”.
We are giving our core identity away to those who would rob us of our place in the world as true Canadians.
I did not know that part of your story, Julie. Thank you for sharing and about your love of Canada. I am grateful to be Canadian and live in a country that respects the rule of law and freedom of religion. Our neighbours are decent, honest, caring, generous people. That’s my Canada.
Yes, indeed Wayne. Success breeds success and what is seen as successful politically in the US and Europe falls short of Christian qualities. Intimidation, lies, slander, bullying, arrogance, fear may win an election but won’t build a nation. Courage, integrity, compassion, humility, understanding, wisdom, love are still in favour with leaders God favours.