Canada Day 2020: A New Year

Thoughts on our national day of celebration.

"We live in the best [darned] spot of the best [darned] nation on the entire planet. What more could anybody want?" --My father, when I was growing up.

I'm unapologetic about my national pride. I love this country, and it's not an accident that the first day of Achieve Legal coincides with July 1.

I didn't get into law school with the high-minded dreams of being a white knight of justice. I'd read too many Grisham novels to not go into the practice with a healthy dose of cynicism. I was always impressed by those who did, and who today are doing well and doing good, but I saw law as a profession and was really just happy to be there.

But, over my 8 years at the Bar, I've learned that the best [darned] nation calls us all towards justice. We've had legendary jurists pave a highway towards their sense of fairness. We have exceptional lawyers and phenomenal legal scholars who guide society down that road. That road enables even a simple guy like me, from a modest upbringing, to one day open his own law firm and serve his community.

Are we perfect? No. I respect our Indigenous people who struggle against systemic oppression, minorities who feel that their lives don't matter, those that feel trapped in economic hardship, the liberal and experimental whose attempts to define themselves challenge the norm. All of these people, and so many others, demand more of our great nation.

But, they can demand more because our country can provide more. This is a country of limitless potential: an embarassment of resources, a diverse and respectful population, humble pride, and a constitutional living tree that is the backbone of a thriving social system. We will be more just tomorrow, because we can be today. And I am humbled by, and embrace, my calling to help us do just that, as a lawyer, as a father, as a husband, as a Christian, and as a Canadian.

Today, Canada marks 153 years of growth, development, and nationhood. Today, Achieve Legal marks the start of its work, helping clients navigate the path of justice. Congratulations, Canada; Cheers! Onward.