I have wondered for many years now if there is something like a Canadian Dream. Something in the hearts of us that we Canadians believe in, either by ourselves, or as a people. I have met so many of us in Canada following our many dreams, I wonder if there are themes of dreams that some might share in common.

The American Dream has driven the aspirations or well being of many millions of Americans over their lifetimes.  America’s innovative and productive economy, even with its setbacks, is a marvel at creating new ideas and businesses…..and solving complex problems. The dream to become anything or anyone, no matter where your start, while not always real, inspires many to greatness creating art, music, technology, business, charities and other monuments to human achievement. The American Dream appears to give people more giddy up, a higher sense of possibility and more confidence in each other.

One thing I like about theirs is it seems to accept failure as every bit a part of achievement, another necessary step along the way. We could benefit by a bit more of that. In fact it is possible in Canada that we sometimes stigmatize failure. The stigma of failure can hinder the steps of rejuvenation that is important after life has just given you a solid learning experience. Few people just do it like Americans. And they somehow seem to pick themselves up after getting rocked doing one thing or another.

Though life is far from perfect in America or Canada, do we Canadians and our newcomers dream of something better for us, our families and our community?  Do we Canadians impart something different or special in our dream? Have we a Dream for Canada?

Having lived and worked in many places across Canada and abroad, and through jobs and careers ranging from the loading docks to the boardroom, I believe there is an interesting conversation that all people can participate, in equal part.  I would like to add your thoughts to mine about what we believe about our people and their future.

Over the next months let’s invite discussion among the people we know – Canadians, visitors and those abroad – and your send ideas, essays, comments or youtube videos to info@aquaterra.tv. You can also write your comments below. I would like to share your thoughts with others and you will be helpful with my dream to write or create something about us Canadians. If you wish to submit something, in the header line write Dream for Canada. Start by telling me your version of the dream and lets see if we might all share something in common.

I am looking for volunteers, too. If you wish to gather in a group to discuss this locally (the lower Mainland at first), I would enjoy the chance to meet, listen or speak.  Anywhere is fine, a house, a classroom, or a community centre. Write info@aquaterra.tv and include Meeting in the email subject line. Those who organize a gathering will be rewarded a treat with the Spa, for an evening of fun, food and refreshments.

An Explanation

It just may be that in unwrapping our national dream we might expose a mother-lode of confidence and national character. I believe we have so much capability and potential, but sometimes we doubt ourselves, or our people. Millions of Canadians have gone on, often elsewhere, to achieve great heights in every capacity.   We are a capable, diverse people.  Maybe it is time to be okay with that and create the best conditions for success at home.

This discussion might give us more awareness of our capabilities, options, and actions.  It might make us work together more that benefits ourselves and our children and their future. Talking about us and our dream might leave future generations something worthy of our mutual effort.