Rideau Hall, Friday, October 6, 2006

Consider for a moment what has brought us here today. The Order of Canada investiture ceremony is a unique and indeed an ideal opportunity to think about excellence and what it means in our communities.

For what is excellence if not diligence and a desire to see things through; the mastery of an art or knowledge; unparalleled generosity? In other words, excellence is putting forth the very best we have to offer.

Celebrating excellence is so much more than handing out medals. It is recognizing outstanding actions. More than that, it is holding up as role models those who inspire us—all of us and generations to come. The example you have set leaves no doubt that nothing is impossible when you make the effort. The results are obvious: you are our very best, for you have given the best of yourselves.

We honour you today, for you have surpassed yourselves in virtually every area of human endeavour.

You are a diverse group, one that includes professors emeritus, company founders, prolific writers, humanitarian and social activists, seasoned artists, leading medical experts, respected communicators, including a sports announcer like no other, whose voice and elegant manner have been a part of our lives for nearly 50 years, and a renowned Canadian journalist and exceptional communicator whose tragic passing has left a void on American television.

Ladies and gentlemen, though your disciplines may be varied, you share a determination and commitment, that powerful spirit of fellowship so desperately needed in the world today.

It has been my privilege as governor general to travel from one end of this country to the other during the first year of my mandate. One of the things that struck me is that our most valuable resource as a country is the creativity, daring and persistence of women, men and youth who choose to get involved when others might turn away; individuals who, like you, want nothing more than to have a hand in shaping humanity.

On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to extend to you our deepest gratitude and thank you sincerely for your extraordinary contribution to the betterment of us all.

Thank you, one and all!