Reflecting on the Canadian Dream: A Personal Journey
Canada has long been depicted as a Promised Land for immigrants: a place of clean air, excellent healthcare, and the dream of home ownership. However, for many, including myself, the reality of life in Canada can sometimes spoil this idyllic image. After nearly eight years away, I want to share three personal reasons why I left Canada and never looked back.
Disillusionment with Belonging
Growing up in Canada, I grappled with my identity amidst a multicultural society. Despite the vision of Canada as a mosaic of cultures, my personal experiences often reflected a different reality. While we were surrounded by peers from various backgrounds, invisible boundaries seemed to segregate us.
I found myself in groups defined more by our cultural similarities than by a shared Canadian identity. We, as Asian immigrants, formed our communities, often feeling like outsiders within the broader Canadian society. This sense of isolation sparked a deep desire to seek out a place where I truly belonged, leading me to China.
Living in China, I discovered a rich tapestry of friendships that crossed cultural boundaries, as many foreigners banded together. In this diverse community, I felt a deeper connection to multiculturalism than I ever had in Canada. It appears that sometimes stepping outside the familiar can pave the way to a more profound sense of belonging.
One of the more practical reasons for my departure from Canada is the high cost of living. As I transitioned to life abroad, I realized how fortunate I am in my current job, which not only pays well but also covers my housing expenses. This arrangement has allowed me to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often faced in Canada.
In contrast to the Canadian market, where housing can consume a significant portion of one’s salary, I live in a country where the cost of living is about a fifth of what I would have spent back home. Companies often offer foreigners a premium salary, making it even more appealing. I can save, invest, and travel without the overwhelming financial burden that many Canadians experience regularly.
Finally, my discontent with what I perceive as the prevailing liberal culture in Canada plays a significant role in my decision to remain abroad. Many Canadians seem quick to be offended by minor issues, creating a tense environment that diverges from the more straightforward approach to life I have come to appreciate in China.
In my observations, the citizens of China tend to focus on their daily lives, working hard to provide for their families rather than getting caught up in contentious cultural debates. While I understand that every country has its challenges, I believe Canada is heading in a direction that may not be beneficial for future generations, including my children.
In the end, I reflect on the Canadian experience with mixed emotions. While the country boasts many attractive features and opportunities, my personal journey has led me to conclude that it is not the right place for me or my family at this point in our lives.
If you're considering a life abroad or wondering about the landscape of Canada, I invite you to reflect on my experiences. Is the vision of Canada in your mind aligned with the reality on the ground? Whether you're an immigrant in search of belonging, facing financial pressures, or seeking a different cultural perspective, perhaps there’s a world beyond Canada waiting to be explored.
Part 1/5:
Reflecting on the Canadian Dream: A Personal Journey
Canada has long been depicted as a Promised Land for immigrants: a place of clean air, excellent healthcare, and the dream of home ownership. However, for many, including myself, the reality of life in Canada can sometimes spoil this idyllic image. After nearly eight years away, I want to share three personal reasons why I left Canada and never looked back.
Disillusionment with Belonging
Growing up in Canada, I grappled with my identity amidst a multicultural society. Despite the vision of Canada as a mosaic of cultures, my personal experiences often reflected a different reality. While we were surrounded by peers from various backgrounds, invisible boundaries seemed to segregate us.
Part 2/5:
I found myself in groups defined more by our cultural similarities than by a shared Canadian identity. We, as Asian immigrants, formed our communities, often feeling like outsiders within the broader Canadian society. This sense of isolation sparked a deep desire to seek out a place where I truly belonged, leading me to China.
Living in China, I discovered a rich tapestry of friendships that crossed cultural boundaries, as many foreigners banded together. In this diverse community, I felt a deeper connection to multiculturalism than I ever had in Canada. It appears that sometimes stepping outside the familiar can pave the way to a more profound sense of belonging.
The Reality of Cost of Living
Part 3/5:
One of the more practical reasons for my departure from Canada is the high cost of living. As I transitioned to life abroad, I realized how fortunate I am in my current job, which not only pays well but also covers my housing expenses. This arrangement has allowed me to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often faced in Canada.
In contrast to the Canadian market, where housing can consume a significant portion of one’s salary, I live in a country where the cost of living is about a fifth of what I would have spent back home. Companies often offer foreigners a premium salary, making it even more appealing. I can save, invest, and travel without the overwhelming financial burden that many Canadians experience regularly.
A Diverging Cultural Landscape
Part 4/5:
Finally, my discontent with what I perceive as the prevailing liberal culture in Canada plays a significant role in my decision to remain abroad. Many Canadians seem quick to be offended by minor issues, creating a tense environment that diverges from the more straightforward approach to life I have come to appreciate in China.
In my observations, the citizens of China tend to focus on their daily lives, working hard to provide for their families rather than getting caught up in contentious cultural debates. While I understand that every country has its challenges, I believe Canada is heading in a direction that may not be beneficial for future generations, including my children.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
Part 5/5:
In the end, I reflect on the Canadian experience with mixed emotions. While the country boasts many attractive features and opportunities, my personal journey has led me to conclude that it is not the right place for me or my family at this point in our lives.
If you're considering a life abroad or wondering about the landscape of Canada, I invite you to reflect on my experiences. Is the vision of Canada in your mind aligned with the reality on the ground? Whether you're an immigrant in search of belonging, facing financial pressures, or seeking a different cultural perspective, perhaps there’s a world beyond Canada waiting to be explored.