The Icelandic Canadian - 01.09.1968, Blaðsíða 14

12
THE ICELANDIC CANADIAN
Autumn 1963
of its nobler traits. In pursuing
this goal we must be careful not to
fall victim to unjust pride and
chauvinism. Icelandic culture is
not to be viewed as an isolated
phenomenon; rather it is one of
the strands which have been woven
into the fabric of western civil-
ization. Nonetheless, it represents
the part which has been placed in
our care in order that we may
protect it against the forces of
deterioration. If we properly main-
tain our vigil, our share in this
important enterprise will bring
dividends proportionate to the
best qualities of our larger com-
munion of national cultures.
Throughout their history the Ice-
landers have continuously been
the recipients of stimulating cul-
tural influences from other na-
tions. Thus they have never al-
lowed themselves to become isol-
ated, even though our country was
in the past far off the internation-
al routes. Today cultural isolation
is not one of our difficulties and
may it never be.
It is my firm conviction that if
we wish to fulfill our prime
obligation, we must add strength
to our national culture at the same
time as we remain in tune with
all the beneficial features of those
other national cultures which lie
within our sphere of communica-
tion.” (loosely rendered from the
inaugural address of President
Eldjarn, printed in MorgunblaSiS,
August 2, 1968).
The above excerpts clearly indicate
that President Eldjarn will be deeply
concerned with the very phases of Ice-
landic life which have warranted the
inclusion of Iceland in the league of
western civilization. Few would be
better qualified to join the standard
bearers of that league than the new
President himself.
The members of the Editorial Board
of -the Icelandic Canadian Magazine
wish to take this opportunity to ex-
tend congratulations to the President
and his family and express the sincere
hope that good fortune will always at-
tend them.
—Haraldur Bessason