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When Justin Trudeau emerged from Rideau Hall as Canada’s 23rd prime minister, the atmosphere was providential and full of possibility.

Trees blazed in the unseasonably warm November sun; babies ran to their father’s arms, as if on a photographer’s cue; supporters grabbed selfies with the new prime minister as he performed an impromptu walkabout, scaring the bejabbers out of his RCMP detail.

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Most of all, Canada’s blessing — the peaceful transfer of power — made the bitter partisanship of the recent campaign seem light years away.

The carnival mood that began when Trudeau strode toward Rideau Hall like a conquering Roman general extended until he shook the last hand and kissed the last baby of the 3,500 or so Canadians who had stood waiting patiently all day.

It almost overwhelmed the senses — like the moment Dorothy entered Technicolour in the Wizard of Oz.

For a day, even the sceptics — ahem — were forced to admit the positive symbolism was a powerful antidote to the severe, austere Harper years.