Strong and Free...still

Yesterday was a day my country hoped would never come.  An armed gunman shot and killed an unarmed soldier who was guarding the National War Memorial near Parliament Hill in Ottawa.  Then he entered our Parliament Buildings and opened fire.  Two security guards were injured, thankfully not fatally, before the Sergeant at Arms, a ceremonial figure in our House of Parliament, shot and killed the gunman. 
The death of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, the unarmed soldier shot while keeping vigil over our War Memorial, is senseless and tragic.  That someone was able to enter the heart of our governement with a weapon and open fire is terrifying.  But we will not live in fear.  We will not let the hatred of others turn us to hate.  We are strong.  We are free.
This is a card I posted earlier this year in celebration of our country's birthday.  Today I am reposting it in honour of Corporal Cirillo, and of all those who fight each day to keep us strong and free...

Oh Canada, our home and native land;

True patriot love, in all thy sons' command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise

The True North strong and free.

From far and wide, Oh Canada,

We stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land,

Glorious and free.

Oh, Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Oh, Canada, we stand on guard for thee.