I know I am a week late, but I feel that it is important to reflect on the many blessings living in Canada entails. First and foremost is freedom. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom to choose who to love, who to marry, who to work for, who to vote for. Freedom is the core value of Canadian Politics.

Canada is a welcoming country, multi-cultural and more tolerant than most. I am thankful for this variety. My children get to experience different cultures, different views, different beliefs without having to go far. Traveling within Canada gives a different meaning to the word “Staycation”. You can “Staycate”, yet get a feel of Italy, China, Israel or Lebanon without going more than 100km away. And if you really want to explore something different, you can always go South of the Border. (wink, wink). The United States is a Nation similar, yet so different. So different, they may as well be from across the ocean.

I am thankful for the beauty, the nature, the fact that Canadians preserve green space. Visiting Toronto last week-end, I was in total awe to see the sight from atop of the CN Tower. Wow! All this greenery! New York City can’t hold a candle next to Toronto! It’s simply breathtaking! It has just the right balance of urban/suburban.

I am thankful that we are a caring people, making sure our children are fed, healthy and educated. I love that we invest in their future. Most of all, I am thankful that we are a peaceful nation, not a gun culture. I am thankful that I wake up every morning without the threat of war. I am thankful that when I send my kids to school, I don’t fear a bomb will explode at their elementary school or that they will end up in a mass shooting.

Indeed, Canada truly is the Best Country on Earth. And I am thankful I was born a Canadian. Do you love this country too? Do your part. Next Monday, Get out and vote!