Why, in this day and age, do we find it acceptable that God needs to remain in our national anthems? I will refer, for the sake of this rant, to Canada’s anthem.

To change it seems to be just too controversial for a lot of people. I say that it needs to be changed in order to be a truly secular nation. To me, it is embarrassing. It says that the country is stuck in an archaic tradition and accepts segregation of the people that call Canada home.

The debate seems to be a political hot bed. Nobody will touch it. I, however, place it in the same place at the Lord’s Prayer. If there is to be an anthem then let it be one that reflects the people and the nation. Drawing reference to the weird beliefs of some 2000 year-old middle eastern desert dwelling tribe just doesn’t seem to apply to Canada.

Here is my suggestion:

O Canada!

Our home and peaceful land!

True patriot love in all thy peoples command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,

The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Let us keep our land glorious and free!

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.