FLAGGED

Midst all our talk about the “New Normal”, this is probably a good time for us to start thinking and preparing for the many changes we’re facing, and perhaps more importantly, our ability to adjust and embrace the transformation of our future world.

While some may view this as an exciting time, the majority of people are “creatures of habit” whose physiology dictates a strong resistance to even the slightest alteration in routine, let alone the colossal shift we are currently experiencing. Change lights up the brain’s prefrontal cortex, the fast and agile component of its operating system. But just like a computer’s RAM memory, its capacity is limited, and too many quick calculations produces fatigue, discomfort, and anger.

 

 

“… things will be different…”

 

Recognizing these limitations will be paramount to maintaining good mental health in the days ahead. Self awareness helps us establish an open mind that can accept the basic realization that things will be different. Braced with this understanding, we can now build a solid foundation for the “New Norm” along with a more appropriate baseline for our emotional responses.

It is also important for us to realize that while initially distressing, changes are supposed to create improvements and our present fears are often for naught. And may even seem absurd when we finally reach a point that allows time for pause and reflection on this moment.

Something Canadians should remember every time we gaze upon our nation’s flag and all it has come to symbolize.

In 2015 we hosted a group of exchange students who asked about the “weird” flag flying prominently over a fisherman’s wharf in the city of St. John’s, Newfoundland.

 

 

“… weird flag …”

 

“Weird?”, we asked. “Really?”

“Yeah – that’s a really weird flag!” they giggled.

“Well, isn’t that an interesting comment. And an excellent learning opportunity! Do you know that this “weird flag” belongs to Canada?”

“No, its not”; they cried afoul. “Our flag is the Maple Leaf!”

“True enough – but do you know that the Maple Leaf is a new flag. That its not as old as I am?” (Not exactly true, but a guide is allowed some creative leeway in the name of a good story)

“Really?” they asked.

 

 

“… a cool new flag …”

 

 

“Uh huh. Can you believe the Maple Leaf is only turning 50 this year? Before that we flew this ‘Red Ensign’ as our nation’s pennant.”

They nodded along with the conversation and we asked;

“So, which flag do you prefer for Canada?”

“The Maple Leaf!!!!!”, they screamed in unison, really getting into the lesson and a sense of national pride.

“Well, isn’t that interesting because the Maple Leaf caused an awful lot of controversy when it was first introduced. Many Canadians hated it; they mocked the political leaders who introduced it, wrote letters of protest, held rallies, and even ran an election to have it abolished. They didn’t want change, they wanted the “Weird Flag” you’re looking at now.”

“Not true!”, they shouted.

 

 

“… not true…”

 

“It is, I swear! But, aren’t you glad they kept an open mind? That they embraced the opportunity and created one of the most iconic and beloved banners on the planet?”

Of course you know how they responded.

We just hope they remember that “life lesson” as we plod through this pandemic – continuing our efforts to contain the virus and protect our most vulnerable while we console ourselves with a proven tolerance for change and a future that sees us united again.

“Oh Canada! God guard thee Newfoundland!”