Community Pride Parades

My last two Sundays have been all about parades. Last Sunday was the Pride Parade in Toronto; today was the 100th anniversary Canada Day parade in...My last two Sundays have been all about parades. Last Sunday was the Pride Parade in Toronto; today was the 100th anniversary Canada Day parade in Westville, Nova Scotia. It would be easy to note the contrasts -- the closest thing to partially clothed men in today’s parade were those wearing kilts in the many pipe bands. Today’s parade featured Clydesdale horses, antique tractors and local princesses from many small local businesses. Last Sunday’s parade did not have any farm equipment and, while there were queens, there were no princesses. What struck me, against all odds, were the similarities. In both communities, the parade route was lined with families out for the day to enjoy the sun and cheer on the marchers. In both communities there was a nearly palpable sense of fun and of love of their community. This being Canada Day, I found myself falling in love with my country all over again, for its breadth and diversity. For its sense of community. Happy Canada Day!