Canada replies

A few days ago, I reprinted excerpts from a Newsweek article about the smart Canadians whose economy is sailing along just fine due to their being more prudent and regulatory. I titled the piece "Those dull, smart Canadians." I should have put quotations marks around "dull," because what I meant to convey was that behind that sometimes even self-inflicted stereotype, the real point is that they govern themselves in a much smarter way that we do.

My Canadian friend, Alan, has this to say in response:

May I add this to Shrink Rap, if so, how?

Canada dull???

With ALL the natural beauty bordering three oceans, (Pacific, Atlantic, Arctic), the placid Prairies, the regal Rocky Mountains, and la joie de vivre from the distinct culture of la belle province, Quebec?

OK, approximately 50% of my earnings do go to taxes, federal, provincial, goods and services taxes, school taxes, property taxes, etc., however, ...any Canadian can go into any hospital with a plastic health card in hand. Our socialized medicine ensures all required medical services are rendered - free...

Just because we do not have a colourful (Canadian spelling) Leader-in-Chief, we still have Prime Minister Harper - a Bush wannabe.

When the then Prime Minister Chretien refused to enter Iraq, our current P.M. Harper did a voice-over commercial standing high lighted behind a faded image of Bush, espousing;

"Remember how proud you felt when the Liberals (Canadian political party) told Bush 'no way' on Iraq. Harper was ashamed of his country. He went on American TV to denounce the decision and support George Bush."

With our three national elections in the past four years, our P.M. suspended parliament, true power resting with the minority parties who are really calling the shots...

and you call Canada dull, eh???

Point well made, Alan. I'll never call you dull again, even clearly defined as irony.

Ralph