20milesfromnowhere's Blog

The Middle Child

Like so many others across our country and the world. I was more than a little interested in the Olympics that ended on Sunday. Although a proud American, there was a little piece of me that was rooting for the Canadians to do well. I like Canada and Canadians. They are a proud bunch and an agreeable people by nature. I look at Canadians as friends, allies and brothers. The US has no better friend in the world than the Canadians.

As I thought about Canada, it occured to me that Canada is like a sister to the US. With that in mind, I could not help but to consider the relationship of the nations of North America and how they are similar to those of a family of siblings.

First Americans, the first born with all the attributes of the eldest, type A personality, overachiever and trend setter. A little aggressive, we were the first out of the nest and see our selves not only as the protector of the younger but also as the trail blazers who are determined to out perform the parents.

Then you have Canada. The typical middle child, they are the peace maker, the negotiator, the calm voice and comely personality. She avoids trouble but will stand with the family when trouble arises and is a true ally in turbulent times. You know you can count on her

Mexico, the baby of the family. The youngest that just can not seem to get herself together and again and again, finds herself in need of being bailed out. Constantly unable or unwilling to stand on her own and consistently requiring attention. Typical of this kid, she moves into our home becaue she has no food in her fridge but insist on waving her flag while lounging in our living room. A great place to party, but you would not want to send grandma to live with her.

Ok, before everyone out there starts hammering me with threatening comments,  I will admit to being the baby in my family, and while the above is certainly an exaggeration, there is a morsel or two of truth in it. 

The real subject here is the Canadians, those loveable Canadians. God bless the Canadians. While I was cheering and cursing and pulling for an American win in the great hockey game yesterday,  I must admit that there was a sense of righteousness in having those Canadians win that game. As a good older sibling, I could not begrudge my sister in a win she wanted so much, and worked so hard for and that was so important to her. You go girl. We love you Canada, you done good!