Reeves Canada Day Message

It was my first Canada Day message and the deadline was fast approaching. I made many starts but each ended up in the basket. One message was too political, another was too sentimental and one fit all the requirements of a good lesson plan.

Deadline Day I awoke early. A gentle rain was falling and a light mist hung on the morning air. The view from my window was breathtaking.

Green was everywhere-the pines, poplars, ferns, grass, shrubs - all green, but diverse shades of green that mixed and mingled in harmony.

The garden, planned and organized, put forth young shoots that will mature to yield produce for harvest, if tended and nurtured. The robins flew freely from tree to grass as they searched out breakfast, patient yet determined.

The scene I witnessed was peaceful and serene. A warmth enveloped me and I felt a strong sense of contentment and belonging.

The message was clear. This is Canada. Canada, as diverse in its regions, peoples and cultures as the green in the landscape before me. Canada, young but growing to maturation, dependent upon strong leadership to nurture it through the seasons. Canada, land of freedom and privilege, may we never take these gifts for granted, but work together to assure their security. And now I join with the people of the Township of Head, Clara and Maria, as we unite with all Canadians in a pride filled salute to our country, and express the love and hope and trust we feel as we say, "Happy Birthday Canada, may God Bless You".

Lita Therrien, Reeve

Head, Clara and Maria