"Louis Riel Day" [Reflections on Book - Right Side Up Side Down Connie Bischoff and Romeo Lemieux f Part 2 - re: Epitaph]

Two themes collide for me in this –
I had not seen – that link I’d missed,
Of Europe’s duel and Yankee’s Colt
At high noon drawn – that was a jolt.

So much from Europe found its way
To Canada – still seen today
In forms adjusted to our land;
First Nations watch, and under-stand.

Black hats and white, both silly – viewed
By natives – need for life renewed
By all late-comers to this land,
Whose bullied ways they under-stand.

So those of us third-cultured kids,
Not guest or host – both viewpoints rid
From life – hold Louis’ viewpoint – “mix” –
Aware one group his vision nixed.

Lord, justice is elusive, yet,
Peace-makers dream his vision – get
Their hope renewed – our holiday
Is named for him – his vision stays.

Thanks Lord for this.

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