Canada

Do you think Canada is one of the best places to live in the world? Everyone in my family certainly thought so; therefore, when we made the collective decision to leave France and emigrate to Canada, we were elated. Many of our friends were happy for us, but some were actually envious, bewildered and thought our move would be a simple process. How wrong they were. After living in Canada for nearly three years, I would like to share with you, the reader, a picture of my new life here.

First of all, when I describe my life in Canada, I think of this experience as a new beginning, both for myself and my family. Because I come from a European country, it was unbelievable to realize that I needed to learn once again everything about life. For instance, one knows the laws and regulations in one’s home country when purchasing a new vehicle, and doesn’t expect to have to become familiar with an entirely new process. This new life has overthrown my old standards, and completely changed my existence. Every basic aspect of my daily and work life has had to be readjusted, requiring a lot of flexibility and open mindedness. This experience has been pleasant, compelling and pleasing, but part of the deal also comes with downsides. The feeling of being overwhelmed was very present due to everything that I had to learn. Moreover, as time went by, I realized that Canadian people usually believe that you know how processes work, while you are new and have not been exposed to any of them.

One thing that surprised me a lot concerns my son’s graduation. When I asked for details, the school staff was surprised and they didn’t know what I was looking for! In France grade 12 students don’t celebrate graduation. French high schools offer neither a ceremony nor a party. There is nothing to mark this occasion, so how was I supposed to know the protocol? So how funny was it when I asked around about the clothes and specific colours that needed to be worn for the graduation photos. It was a little bit scary because I didn’t want to mess up. Despite feeling like a fish out of water, it was a pleasant experience.

Another thing that surprised me is the banking system in Canada, especially when it comes to credit cards. When I applied for a credit card at one of big six banks, the manager showed me a book as thick as a dictionary to choose from. Needless to say, as there is only one type of credit card offered in France, I was completely overwhelmed, and decided it would be best to ask for advice.

Further, I continue to be surprised, even after living in Canada for three years, by how courteous people are: Maybe it is because I live in a small town on the east coast? Whatever the reason, I can’t believe how respectful, polite, and caring everyone is. When I lived in France in a medium sized city, I did not have the same feeling at all. People were not respectful of each other.

This new behaviour that me and my family are experiencing on a daily basis is really important to me, as it is my goal to share such behavior with my child. This aspect of Canadian life makes me realize oftentimes that my daily life here is enjoyable and cheerful.

To be honest, overall, I prefer my life in Canada. Yet, it does not mean that everything here is better than in my home country. I miss different aspects of my old life that do not exist here. For example, eating is a very important aspect of French people’s lives. In fact, our lives are organized around meals: people take an hour to eat, and oftentimes eat 3 course meals. The French culture inspires us to always discover new dishes, whether we cook them ourselves, or go to restaurants. I found that in Canada, there is a definite lack of variety in food options. When shopping for groceries, I always try and seek different kinds of food, but I am never guaranteed of being able to find what I want. Another aspect of this issue is that I like spending time eating. For celebrations, or even just in my daily life, it is not an issue for me to stay seated at a table for hours. I enjoy passing my free time in this way, and miss it a lot. I don’t get the Canadian addiction to fast food.

Despite often feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and sometimes disappointed, the upsides of living in Canada definitely far outweigh the difficulties on being a new Canadian.