Next week, all BLE members in the U.S. and Canada will take a day to celebrate the freedom that citizens of both nations enjoy. On July 1, Canadians will celebrate Canada Day, and on July 4, the U.S. will celebrate Independence Day. I would like to take this opportunity to wish every one a safe and happy holiday. But we must not forget the importance of what each of these holidays celebrate.
As we in the U.S. prepare to observe and celebrate Independence Day 2002, many of us are filled with mixed emotions. The feelings of sadness and anger over the September 11 tragedy are sill still fresh in our minds. However, we also realize that we are very fortunate in this country. Maybe this year, we feel a little more pride in our nation, but we are also more aware of the dangers of a free society and the sacrifices that are often made to maintain this freedom.
Four days earlier, Canadians will also take a day to celebrate their own freedom on Canada Day. This holiday, like U.S. Independence Day, may be a little bittersweet for the Canadians, like the Americans, are also fighting hard to maintain the freedoms that we all enjoy. I will always remember and appreciate the expressions of sadness, concern and sympathy that came from our Canadian members after September 11.
Today, we look at a world filled with uncertainty. However, this year citizens of the U.S. and Canada should be more proud than ever of the freedom that both nations enjoy. Both countries are standing together in defense against the enemies of freedom and independence.
The tragedies of the past year will live in our hearts and minds forever, but we will always be aware that our shared culture of freedom and our way of life on this continent are the envy of people throughout the world.
Have a safe and happy holiday!