Identity: What is it to be ______?
- Jul
- 01
Happy Canada Day! Happy 4th of July! Happy Patriotism Day! Happy Identity Day!
With two major North American holidays in the same weekend, I’m inspired to consider the celebration of identity. After all, it’s the birthday of two great nations populated by many more cultures.
As a native of Canada, I identify very strongly and proudly with my Canadian-ism. Having travelled the world and lived abroad, being Canadian is one of my first go-to’s for acknowledging who I am.
I start with human being – a DNA thing! Then go to gender: female. Interestingly, I quickly add: Canadian. Followed by family roles: daughter, sister, wife, cousin, niece, aunt, and granddaughter. From here, I go to other roles: friend, neighbour, Social Worker (it’s entrenched in my being!), coach, mentor, student, facilitator, speaker, author, humorist, artist, gardener (seed-planter) and so on.
Amazingly, at this time of year I marvel at how high up my ID list I place ‘Canadian.” Yet, it’s not really surprising, since all the other ways of identifying myself reflect my Canadian-ism. How I was as a Social Worker will always reflect my Canadian values of freedom, choice, respect and humanitarianism. How I am as a Coach shows my valuing of each person, and my joy in supporting people to grow. How I am as a student of life follows my openness, curiosity and humour. All traits of Canadian-ism.
Today, waving my Canadian flag and wearing my Canada shirt from last year’s local Olympic event, I proudly live all the roles I identify with – all as Canadian.
Which life roles do you identify with most? Where does your national role land on your ID list? Which flag of identity are you waving this holiday season? Are you donning tattoos of leaves, stars or other symbols of national or cultural pride? Are you red, white, blue or…?
