This week we will celebrate our independence, the principles upon which this country was founded and our history.

This week Canadians will celebrate their independence, the principles upon which their country was founded and their history as well. July 1, was Canada Day.

Americans are fortunate to have such a neighbor, especially at a time when so much of the world seems to have gone mad. Canada has an illustrious and distinguished history.

Having worked in many countries and having traveled in over 70 nations, I know that Canada is widely and deeply respected for what it stands for, for the reputation of its institutions and for its reliable and generous help to peoples around the world over many years. I am afraid we often take our good neighbor for granted. Perhaps that is because we know it is reliably democratic, egalitarian, justice oriented, predictably balanced, mature and a model of civility. Would it not be a good idea for every American who knows someone in Canada, to wish them Happy Canada Day?

Donovan Russell

Moravia