CNN iReport

From Canada’s July 1^st to United States 4^th of July: Happy Birthday North America!

Here in Canada we are celebrating on “Canada Day,” the 142 anniversary of the day that the Canadian Government was officially created and became independent from England on July 1, 1867. Our older brother, the United States, celebrating 233 anniversary that marking the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Happy birthday anniversary to the free world; to the principals of freedom, democracy, and equality. I find it hard to separate both our celebrations here in Canada from our neighbours south the boarders in the States - as we share so much of common values, history, and heritage. Few North Americans are actually native to this area; many of our relatives traveled long distances to come to these lands of opportunity. They came in search of a better life for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. They brought with them a rich culture, which reflects on us today and became part of our inherent makeup. Abraham Lincoln indeed summarized the American dream in this statement from the Declaration, “that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” Happy Birthday North America!