There are even more galvanizing aspects to the Canadian psyche than mere reticence. There is the collective fear, at least when I was growing up, of becoming too big for our britches. To paraphrase Lorne Michaels {my countryman}, it's the kind of place where they award Miss Canada to the runner-up, because the prettiest already gets to be the prettiest. Rather than demanding liberty or, failing that, death, we are a country forever giving up our seats to the elderly, all the while thanking one another for not smoking.
The Canadian identity is shaped by more than just a cultural reservation; it includes a deep-rooted fear of arrogance and excess. Growing up in Canada, there was a sense that being too confident or self-assured was frowned upon. This mentality is captured in the idea that accolades often go to the second best, as highlighted by Lorne Michaels’ statement about Miss Canada. This reflects a national tendency to downplay individual success and remain humble.
Instead of striving for absolute freedom or making bold demands, Canadians often prioritize politeness and consideration for others. The act of relinquishing personal gain—like giving up a seat on public transportation—illustrates a collective emphasis on community and courtesy. Therefore, the Canadian psyche embodies a unique blend of humility and social responsibility, reinforcing a preference for collective well-being over personal ambition.
