Yesterday in class, my friend Robbie said that his family
will be making haggis on Wednesday as part of their annual Robert Burns
celebration. First, I had to ask him what haggis was—turns out it’s a kind of
pudding made with sheep’s heart (or liver or lungs), minced with herbs, spices
and oatmeal. And then, I asked him who Robert Burns was, and why was he was so
special that he got his own day dedicated to him. Spoiler alert: Robert Burns
is Scottish and my friend was named after him!
According to Robbie, Burns was a famous poet in Scotland,
and every year on his birth day, January 25, people gather to eat haggis and
celebrate his works. Not just Scottish people either! Apparently, he was so
well known that he is celebrated throughout the world—even in Alberta, there
are events happening!
In class, we’re even reading some of his (a bit confusing) poetry.
Thankfully, I don’t think anyone is bringing in haggis.
Talking to my friend Robbie about Robbie Burns Day got me
thinking about why it’s such an
important day for Scottish people, and I learned that the event is meant to
celebrate Burns’ significant contribution to Scottish culture. Neat, right?
This year, during Canada’s 150th birthday
celebration, there will be tons of events to help honour the people who have
contributed to this country’s very diverse culture. Instead of haggis, there
will be bison burgers, Evans’ cherries, and fries cooked in canola oil (a true
Canadian food!), for example. I can’t wait.
I’ve already learned so much about the traditions and
cultures of other people who live in Canada—and it’s only January! I’m looking
forward to a year of learning.
Have you ever tried haggis? And if you could celebrate ANY poet, who would it be, and what would you eat? I’d probably pick Robert Frost, and we’d eat snow cones. Get it? <grin>
Gotta Jet! Have a great weekend!
~ Chase Superman Duffy
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