O Canada
Every year the Canadian Government spends our taxes finding out what people around the world think of us. For 20 years it has not changed.
We are thought of as honest, trustworthy, reliable, friendly -good people. In fact "Canadian" is one of the most attractive brands in the world. But do we have a clear picture of ourselves? Perhaps we think of ice hockey, natural resources, and as the promotion we provided for the world at the Torino Olympics, ice fishing...
Here are some facts that might surprise...
Canada made the list of "Top 10 Entrepreneurial Nations" for each of the last 10 years - and we are the only nation to make that list for 10 consecutive years.
The World Bank rates Canada as 4th on the list of "Easiest place to do business by foreign interests"
The UN has determined that Canada is the frontrunner for incoming investment.
Canada is one of the most "wired" places on the planet today.
In addition, it has been determined that we have the best infrastructure in the world from a business perspective - #1.
Canada has the #5 most competitive economy in the world, and estimates are that we will continue to lead the world in competitiveness right through 2009.
We are way beyond touques and maple syrup.
So now that we have an accurate view of our resources - how should we use them?
Today over 40 million people are living with AIDS... Canada has the resources to take the offensive against AIDS. It is in our power to halt this epidemic in our lifetime.
If Canadians agree that this must be done, and decide to make it happen now, it can be accomplished. It will require people, ideas, and resources focused on the task.
O Canada, it can be done.
I have been really impressed
I have been really impressed by the facts that you have shared. I am eager to see something get done, and I am interested in being a part of it. (and it takes a lot to make me get up and say, 'ok, I'll do it")
But I have a question.
What is your ask? That is, what is it you want people to do? I have pledged to send in my dollar. But I feel like I want to do more. As I said, the facts you have shared are very compelling.
But I just don't know where to start. I wonder if others are wondering the same thing? You said a while back that anything was possible if people were given direction and a reasonable goal. I think you have the opportunity to set those and share them with this community. I know I am waiting for guidance for how I can take action and be of service.
I am looking forward to working with you and others in our community on this.