Don't lose sight of what's important

Gold, silver or bronze. First, second or third. Win or lose. Pass or fail. Own the podium. World record. Grand prize winning. However we put it, we like to classify people's achievements, especially those who are at the top of their game.

And while we're accustomed to following our favourite professional athletes, actors, authors and the like with great fanfare and attention - we're no less likely to use the same sort of classification system on a much smaller and personal scale.

From the first time they step into the sandbox, a classroom, a rink or join any sort of organized group - children are likely to learn that life's all about competition. And that sense of challenge can come from or be further emphasized by almost anybody - parents, coaches, peers, casual onlookers, arm-chair critics, or even from within the person themselves.

Not that there's anything inherently wrong with competition. It makes children work harder, push themselves that extra mile, study another five minutes, practice that instrument, or whatever it takes to be the best they can be. It makes them stronger and hopefully builds their self-confidence, all the while teaching them to make the best short and long-term choice and how to prepare for whatever life throws their way.

And as children grow and strive to improve themselves, the list of rewards also gets longer. There's always another sporting trophy or tournament to win, an extra A on the report card, medal around the neck, or spot closer to the top of the pile.

What if a child's interests lies not in the pool or on the ice, at the popsicle stick bridge competition, or on the stage? Rather, more interested in the world around them, where their family came from, how their habits and customs evolved, the history of their community, province or country? Well, some of those interested have been encouraged and explored over the past several years with Historica Heritage Fairs.

These fairs have helped students connect with their families and communities, aided in the discovery of others' achievements or battles, discover their personal or collective histories, all the while helping them further expand and grow their minds.

Not only that, but as you know or can guess, there are prizes for best in show. From fairs in local gymnasiums, there are regional and provincial competitions, and even a national fair. They are an excellent opportunity for a young person to explore and develop their creativity and passion for their heritage.

But wait. The Georgian recently discovered the Historica Heritage Fair is no more. Some noodling around the Internet seems to confirm this fact. We found a press release stating the national heritage fair program has undergone some changes - the national fair has been cancelled, with a 'national committee' set up to support regional and provincial fairs.

A call to the foundation, which has since combined with the Dominion Institute, revealed the heritage fair program is now being administered by Canada's National History Society.

Fair enough, one supposes - the program has changed hands and thus the way it's operated has changed, too. And while the society does a great deal of work in preserving and promoting Canadian culture and history, why no public statement saying the national fair has been axed? The Georgian contacted the National History Society to find out the reasons for the cancellation of the national fair, but received no response by press time.

We at the Georgian have attended many heritage fairs throughout the Bay St. George area and have seen the benefits of the program. We certainly hope schools locally and provincially don't abandon their fairs or see the cancellation of the national fair as a deft kick in the pants. Rather, just a new step for an old dance; a new swing with the same bat; a new note on the same instrument. Our heritage is important and needs to be understood and appreciated by the next generation.