Canada Day Poem (Late)

I am late with this poem.  I wrote it 3 years ago for our Tenant Association July newsletter. When my old computer crashed this spring, I lost several files that I had not backed up onto a memory stick.   I thought I had lost this poem forever but the editor had a copy in her files and kindly retrieved it for me.  It is still July and hopefully, Canada Day is still not totally forgotten. Forgive this less than timely publication. Regardless of the date, it still applies.

What is Freedom?

Freedom is a priceless endowment Canadians take for granted

Without rancour or apology – or gratitude

It’s “our right” our inheritance – our very own treasure

No one may trample it, question it, or disown it

Take it away, disclaim it or even earn it.

It is there, it is ours – free for the taking

Even if we fail to recognize or appreciate it

Even when we challenge, dispute, distort, or abuse it

It remains with us still

Unworthy, ungrateful, though we may be

The ever-loving puppy at our feet

Forever faithful, always patient, all forgiving, never judging

Though we be prone to such disdain.

In Canada, freedom is not an elusive, impossible dream

It is not a sad lament, not even a fantasy

Uttered with apprehension or dread

Lest we be overheard.

Freedom is not a nebulous vision on a misty horizon

A vague and hopeless delusion, unfruitful, barren

A beautiful mirage of an unattainable aspiration

A wistful thought, unrealized, in fear unspoken

A child not ever-yet to be conceived.

What have I done to be so privileged to posses it?

Worthy and deserving of this incalculable liberty?

I was born in Canada!

As for the suffering million poor of this world – there, but for the grace of God, go I!!!