Dear Editor,

Oh Canada — how you make me smile in knowing you are my home. Sure am glad I hung around in Whistler to watch these last few weeks unfold! Whatever your take on the general ethics of the IOC (or for that matter VANOC), the story told to the world of our wondrous nation is one that had many of us so very proud.

Whether emanated through the brilliance of the athletes, messaged through one of the ceremonies, or conveyed through simple gestures while walking down the Village Stroll, this was a celebration of unity, of multiculturalism, determination and openness. Janice Mckenzie, you are right — we live in one of the warmest and most welcoming places in the world. If 2010’s Olympic spectators didn’t get that before, they sure as hell are  telling that story now!

The opening ceremony had me gripped. Spectacular performances incorporating totem poles, dance and chants depicting our first inheritors, to captivating images of prized virtues Mother Earth so freely gives — the grace of the orca and benevolent might of the spirit bear, from the vigour and splendour of the immigrants’ tap, to the dreamy flight of a Saskatchewan boy reflecting the journey of his soul’s lament... the entire ceremony was simply bursting with messages communicating all that Canada now is.

Something John Furlong said really hit the mark. For this is in part a land that unites so many — both a people born of the land who carry lanterns of tradition and culture rooted in a wisdom that lies deep within, and those who are born of, or come as Canada’s new immigrants from around the world choosing to make it their home.

To speak of the latter (for I am one), as conveyed through the words of John Vancouver — whether immigrants cast from where we came, or simply unable to resist the magical allure that is Canada, we are drawn together to this amazing place, exploration and creativity living and breathing deep within our core. Perhaps particularly blessed here in British Columbia — with each passing day, inspiration from unfathomable beauty feeds our spirits energizing action from the simple theories they would otherwise be.

To me, the real legacy of the Games is the connections we make.

The very fact that we feel such pride at being seen in this light of unity and open embrace, and the fact that others around the globe share how rich indeed this, gives me great hope for the future — for the collaboration and peace the entire world must find.

For when we can stand as one world supporting each other’s virtues in each and every way, all will be empowered and much-needed change will come.

Hold on, though — with the Paralympics in our wake, we’re far from done yet! Consider the story they tell. To me it’s one of unrivalled perseverance — never giving up no matter what life throws our way. May the athletes inspire us to consider how we keep the flame alive, far beyond the torch itself. How can we as individuals, as a community, as an entire nation, stoke a fire so bright, that the smiles created throughout these past two weeks continue to spread from cheek to cheek — on every brow, on every face wherever and on whoever they may be.
Caroline Smalley

Canadian Citizen!
Whistler