July 1st is mostly well known for being Canada’s birthday. In a month and 14 days, I will have lived in this wonderful country for 10 years (minus the summers back in highschool when I would go back to Taiwan). Another year here will be equal to the time I have spent in my home country. So basically I spent the first half of my life in a country that I no longer feel attached to, and the latter half of my life in a place where it’s been named the top 3 places to live in the world. I have grew to dislike a lot of things there because I have been exposed to better options here. Better air, better water, better weather, better environment, and better education. Well, one can argue on that last one. I personally prefer the creative way of education rather than the imposing ideas and deadline-oriented feel. Here, there is a lot of room for fine and performing arts. You can keep your options open and not decide until you’ve explored all your interests.
Anyway, I know a lot of immigrants who have lived here longer than 5 years prefer life here (as opposed to their country of origin). I can see why. Although the living costs here are high, the enjoyment of life is far better here. .. And when it comes to cheering for sports teams, there is no doubt that I am a proud Canadian :) So have a great birthday, Canada! You’re wonderful. I feel lucky to be living in beautiful British Columbia.
