[Yuri]

Hi Jennifer,

I’m sorry that you perceive some of the sentiments expressed on this site as being anti-American. Lightfoot’s music has brought fans from many countries together at Corfid and not surprisingly, perceptions and opinions will vary not only between nations but between individuals. Here, among friends, we feel safe to discuss the topics that unite us such as music, but also what makes us different. It’s what brings “life” to the forum. I would hope that comments and observations of our differences would be taken as an opportunity for discussion and enlightenment rather than immediately perceived as a slight against any person or nation.

Without knowing the statistics, I venture to say that the majority of participants in this forum are probably American and many of the opinions your own. About 80% of the Canadian population resides within several hundred miles of the American border so naturally we are often inundated and overwhelmed by American culture and events. Some Canadians feel it threatens our identity. But like the ‘little brother’ who desperately wishes to be seen as his own person, he would fight tooth and nail to defend his ‘big brother’s’ reputation. Ask any Canadian which country they’d rather share their border with and you’d find that the overwhelming majority would keep the U.S. We are much more alike than different.

Not having read Char’s post where she allegedly commented that the U.S. election campaigns are too long I can only surmise that this was an observation and not intended as an insult. I too scratch my head over a two year campaign for a four year term in office but I mean no insult by it. Char needs no defending, regardless, knowing her personally I can vouch for her integrity as moderator of this forum. In the past she graciously invited a mob of Corfidians into her home during Massey week and I’ve witnessed the friendship she so willingly extends to all, regardless of nationality.

Over the years I have corresponded with, shared music with and personally met many American Corfidians who are no longer acquaintances but have become friends. In fact we all have become a ‘family’ with the surname ‘Corfid’.

Lightfoot was born Canadian, but let’s face it - he belongs to the world. I, for one am delighted he has brought so many of us together at Corfid regardless of our nationality.

Americans? Heck, I married one almost a quarter century ago and I love her madly even if we don’t always see things eye to eye….

Yuri