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It's the 146th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation, and many Canadians across this great land will, without realizing it, pay tribute to the father of Confederation -- Sir John A. Macdonald -- by getting really drunk, and throwing up, just like the great man himself would surely do if he were here today!

On July 1, 1867 Canada became a new federation with its own constitution by signing the Constitution Act (known before 1982 as the British North America Act). Canada may seem like a bland place, next to the show-boating United States of America, but, like probably everywhere, Canada has enjoyed a steady stream of colourful characters in every walk of life. Our First Prime Minister, the Father of Confederation, the political architect of the transcontinental Canadian railroad -- Sir John A. Macdonald, wasn't simply colourful, he was technicolourful!

Sir John was a drinker, seriously so. It is a beloved bit of Canadian lore, true or not, that once, during a debate, he was so drunk, that he began vomiting on the stage. His opponent charged that an alcoholic such as Sir John should not be running the country. Macdonald, rising to the occasion, literally, with his usual wit, famously replied that he was sick “not because of drink, but because I am forced to listen to the ranting of my honourable opponent." ► Sir John's personal life was, in fact, full of great sorrow, so probably it was no wonder he took to drinking so heavily. It was said, however, the public frankly preferred John A. drunk to his enemies sober.

Hooray for Canada, a land of great promise. Today we celebrate. Tomorrow, we go back to work, each in our own way, trying to keep that promise.