Worldly


03. Invisible Independence


On the day that he became fully independent, Matthew thought that there would be more recognition. Instead, America forgot, and England looked embarrassed as he patted Canada on the shoulder. France gave him a rose, but France always did that. The Netherlands smiled and waved at him, though, as Matthew walked away from his first father.

Matthew smiled, and waved back, realizing that even if they had forgotten to give him anything, he was still noticed. It was not everything he wanted, but it was better than it had been.

Cuba did not even attack him. Ice cream with Russia and Cuba may not have sounded like the best day to some, but Canada liked it. When he returned to his house, someone had left a lengthy letter in the letter box. Frying some maple flavored sausage as a personal treat, Matthew read the words, which were stripped to the essential requirements of independence, freedom, never knowing borders, never being afraid of what came to your house in the night, what it must mean to be there, in that place, and how his whole life had lead him there. It was a letter addressed to him, Canada. He cried once.


Notes


Length: 200 words

Canada's constitution was not recognized by the Queen until August 14th, 1982 (Quebec did not recognize it, causing problems after the Queen had accepted the constitution), which puts this drabble smack in the middle of the Cold War. As for who sent the letter, well, it might have been the missing Alfred, given the language of Truth, Justice and Freedom used, or people who know my little fluffy weakness can probably guess why I'm situating this during the Cold War. As long as artists used their skills for the glory of the Soviet cause, the Soviet Union had little against them, and often writers and musicians had more access and influence than the average schmoe. So, someone from there could conceivably send a letter to Canada.

Of course, he'd have to be able to remember Canada's name.


I hope that I have managed to entertain you. Reviews are welcome as always

~ MF