20 Years in Canada: From Warmth to Challenge

I’ve been living in Canada for over 20 years, and some memories still bring a sense of warmth. I recall the first time I went to a local bank—CIBC or Royal Bank, just down the street from where I lived. The staff were always so welcoming and respectful. Whether I was simply asking for directions or doing a transaction, they always treated me with warmth and professionalism. It was these small, everyday interactions that made me feel like I belonged here.

One of the most unforgettable memories came when I had to undergo a minor surgery at the General East Hospital. It was my first time having surgery, and I was extremely nervous. After the infusion, Dr. Woo himself came over to guide me to the surgery room. He placed his hand on my shoulder and said, “No worries, everything will be okay.”

In that moment, I felt a deep sense of comfort. Dr. Woo, along with the four nurses, took such good care of me. They covered me with a warm blanket and spoke to me so kindly. Soon after, I fell asleep peacefully. When I woke up, the nurse gently asked if I wanted something to eat. I felt like I was in a paradise—a place where strangers, who were once so unfamiliar, showed me so much care.

Back then, I never could have imagined receiving such kindness and concern from strangers. It was moments like these that truly shaped my view of Canada, making me feel at home.

Challenges and Choices

However, over the years, I’ve seen both myself and the country evolve. While I still cherish the warmth I first experienced, I’ve noticed that it feels less common nowadays. In recent years, I’ve seen how people’s interactions have become more hurried, and how the atmosphere around me has changed.

Over the years, many of my friends have returned to China, continuing their careers as doctors, engineers, scientists, teachers, and leaders in high positions. They were drawn back by opportunities in fields like technology and education, where they could continue to thrive and contribute to their country’s development. For them, the path was clear, and they quickly found ways to integrate back into the life they left behind.

As for me, I can’t go back, not because I don’t want to, but because my children feel at home here and want to stay in this country. Canada is now my home. I’ve made a life here, and the love I have for this country has deepened with every passing year. I want to be part of building a brighter future here, not only for my kids but for the next generation.

It’s not always easy, and sometimes, I wonder about the opportunities I could have had if I went back. But I’ve come to realize that the life I’ve built here is just as meaningful. This is where my family’s future is, and this is where I want to contribute.

Drawing Inspiration from My Cultural Heritage

As an immigrant, I carry with me the rich traditions and wisdom of my Chinese heritage. I deeply believe that one of the most important things I can do is preserve and pass on the best parts of this heritage to my children. Whether it’s the values of respect, hard work, or the importance of family, these are the elements of my culture that I cherish most.

I hope to blend these values with the new world I live in, creating a bridge between Canada’s multicultural fabric and the Chinese cultural legacy I’ve inherited. Together, we can build a future where respect for diversity and cultural exchange is at the forefront. For me, making Canada more beautiful isn’t just about contributing to the country’s prosperity, but also about contributing to the richness of its culture.

Conclusion:

This new chapter in my life as an immigrant in Canada has shown me that no matter where we come from, we all have a role to play in shaping the future. My journey has been filled with both challenges and warmth, but I believe that these experiences, along with the wisdom I bring from my own culture, will help make Canada even more beautiful.

Reflection on the Future:

As I continue to live here, I see that the future of Canada lies in the blending of cultures, traditions, and the shared efforts of all residents—old and new. Together, we can keep the spirit of kindness alive, drawing from the best of what we have, no matter where we come from. I look forward to the future, where both Canada and China, along with all nations, can continue to grow in peace and harmony.