Rideau Hall, Friday, December 13, 2013

Sharon and I are happy to welcome all of you to Rideau Hall for this ceremony.

I want to begin by paying tribute to a great man, an honorary citizen of Canada, and an honorary Companion in the Order of Canada. Nelson Mandela reminds us all of our duty and our responsibility to make this world a better place. He did it, and we can as well.

As we approach the end of 2013, I think back on all those I have invested into the Order, as members, officers and companions. In addition, I have been privileged to celebrate the accomplishments of so many across this country for bravery and valour, for service and excellence. They, like you, have given something back to this country. They, like you, have earned the respect of all Canadians.

This past year also marked the launch of a travelling exhibit, It’s An Honour, which has already visited 25 communities in two territories and three provinces.

This exhibit allows Canadians to familiarize themselves with our awards, medals and decorations, as well as the people who represent these honours with such distinction, people such as you.

You are being invested into the Order of Canada today because you are among the very best our country has to offer. You have made this country stronger, fairer and more just. You have built a smarter, more caring nation, and have inspired others to do the same.

But even though this investiture reflects a lifetime commitment to Canada, to people, and to your fields of work, your responsibility as community, national and international leaders continues to grow. You are now part of a wider network of Canadians, those who have the task of improving our country and the world by giving back.

All of you have, at one time or another, participated in what I like to call giving moments. Moments in which you saw a need, saw an opportunity, and said to yourself, “I can do something to help.”

You have discovered your giving moments; now let us try to help others find theirs. As members of the Order, you not only have an impact on the world of today, but also have the power to transform our world tomorrow.

As Nelson Mandela once said: “A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination.” He knew, as you know, that a smarter, more caring nation begins with each of us.

So as you receive your snowflake, as you wear it proudly wherever you go, I hope you will keep in mind the influence and responsibility you have.

I look forward to seeing how all of you can work together to create stronger communities and a better country.

Canada is all the better for your contributions, which is why I am so pleased to invest you into the Order of Canada.

Congratulations and thank you for all that you do.