Today, I am thankful for the country of Australia and all it has taught the world.
As I awake this cold, dark morning in Pennsylvania, I am nostalgic for those ‘dog days of summer’ where I can sprawl out on a beach. My wandering mind makes me contemplate about Australia, where the Aussies have now officially embarked upon the summer season. Indeed, the official start of summer in Australia starts today (Jan 26) with Australia Day. As the nation’s official national holiday, Australia Day commemorates the arrival of the “First Fleet” of British ships into Australia and the raising of the flag of Great Britain in New South Wales in 1788.
Take a moment to think what Australia has accomplished in just a bit more than 230 years. To assist you, I am sharing 5 fun facts you probably did not know about the Land Down Under:
1. Australia holds claim to 4 of the top 10 most livable cities in the world (including Melbourne at #1).
2. Australia has never had a civil war.
3. In Australia, 99% of its inhabitants are literate.
4. Australia is the wealthiest nation in the world & holds #1 spot on the Human Development Index.
5. Basically, everyone in Australia votes. Incidentally, a higher voter turnout is what happens when you mandate the right to vote and properly hold elections on a Saturday, as opposed to a Tuesday.
But, in all seriousness, I need to acknowledge that Australia is in midst of tackling some of the deadliest brush fires in their nation’s history. Let’s take a moment to think about them in their time of need and express our gratitude for all they have given to humanity.
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