<p>this space cannot hear
. . .<br>
or is it my own lack
of conviction which makes
these vistas of desolation
. . .
The rocks ignore.
. . .
I am a word
in a foreign language.</p>
<ul>
<li> Disembarking at Quebec, Margret Atwood.</li>
</ul>
<p>There are no better words to describe how I felt upon first immigrating to Canada than those of Margret Atwood, in her poem Disembarking at Quebec. Isolated, insecure, helpless, and bitter. As time moves on, my determination and diligence, along with my parents encouraging words, eventually clears the hindrance to my education and assimilation in this foreign land, the place that nurtures me to whom Ive become. </p>
<p>Chinese by birth, Canadian by choice, I am fascinated by this new land, its nature, people, and traditions. My first impression of Canada is that the children were like birds, allowed to fly wherever they wish with no restrain. Unlike the Chinese convention where children were to strictly obey the monotone Chinese way of life, to get good grades in Math and Mandarin, to go to a good university, and to become good scientists or engineers, Canadian culture exposes me to much freedom and diversity. At school, I discover many of my latent talents in areas as diverse as creative writing, music, and even athletics for I am able to study a broad range of subjects ranging from Art History and Economics to French and Statistics, which I will never see in Chinese High schools. In addition, Canadas pluralistic society taught me the essential skills of tolerance and consideration. Never in my life have I had the opportunity to encounter such a diverse population that Canada has, ranging from gays and lesbians to Blacks and Native Americans. Under such a sphere of influence, I learn that everyone has individual talents and idiosyncrasies, and I should respect everybody for that. </p>
<p>I often picture my life as a movie, and the most dramatic episode of the movie, My Life, is my immigration to Canada. Submerged in this free, multicultural society, my youthful mind easily assimilate the Canadian culture as I fully mature. Even though at first, the new beginning presents much hardship, as time moves on, this life-changing experience leads me to further appreciate that Tough times never last, while tough people do.</p>
<hr>
<p>Thank you very much.</p>