Two Nations, Two Birthdays, One Friendship Across Borders

There are admittedly a lot of jokes thrown about on either side of the border. Many hours are spent poking fun at each other. If you are on the north side of the border, you might end your sentences with “eh”. If you are on the south side of the border, you might end your sentences with “hunh”. You might be called a Bubba, or a Hoser, or a Yank, or a Newfie.

Canada is inundated with American culture by way of politics, Hollywood celebrities, and reality TV. The US is inundated with Canadian culture by way of hockey players, musicians and comedians. For some reason, Canadians just seem to know how to crack a good joke and make a dollar or two doing so.

Most Americans tend to know very little about their neighbor to the north. You certainly won’t see much Canadian history or geography in high school. Most Canadians have learned a bit about the US, mainly because, well, that’s what you do when Big Brother lives south of the border.

Although the two countries have their fair share of things to disagree on  – things like hockey and coffee and health care – they share far more than we might otherwise imagine.

They are each others’ best friend and neighbor. Much as best friends will do, they can anticipate each others’ annoying habits while appreciating their finer qualities. Sometimes, there are tough times between them. But most times, the good qualities of both ring true.

They share the world’s longest undefended border, and are each others’ number one trading partner. Economically, they work together in many ways.

They have fought proudly next to each other in battle. This has spanned many generations, from the beaches of France on D-Day to the wilds of Afghanistan and the war on terrorism. These nations have lost countless lives while standing tall together.

But perhaps the biggest commonality is their unwavering belief in freedom and independence. The United States has the Bill of Rights. Canada has the Canadian Charter of Rights And Freedoms. They both strongly believe in human rights. They are both veritable melting pots of cultural diversity.

And lo and behold, their birthdays are but 3 days apart. Canada celebrated it’s 144th birthday on July 1, and the United States celebrated its 235th birthday on July 4.

Let us celebrate these proud nations, and hope for many long and productive years ahead between them. Two nations sharing freedom. Friendship exemplified – across one border.

Photo credits: Wikipedia