I don't think it's so much that we're spoiling for a fight and just can't wait to drop the gloves, but rather that we are not prepared to be bullied and exploited by someone like Trump, or anyone for that matter.

Yes, the US has an economic hegemony over Canada, and yes, in the event of a trade war, we will be crushed.

But without a trade war we will be crushed anyway, so it's just a question of what you can live with. We are certain to suffer if we fail to act as Trump imposes tariffs and sanctions, but on the balance of probabilities, the expected benefits of standing united and expressing a willingness to endure economic duress will leave us in a better position than doing nothing.

Of course, the operative term is that we stand together, and that is something Canadians have forgotten to do since our grandfathers and great grandfathers stood shoulder to shoulder in Flanders and on the beaches of Normandy. Time to stiffen the spine, put on a brave face and stand united.