“Purpose, pattern, and people, the three P’s at the heart of life.”
~ Charles Handy
“I discovered that a fresh start is a process. A fresh start is a journey – a journey that requires a plan.”
~ Vivian Jokotade
“Life is about change, sometimes it’s painful, sometimes it’s beautiful, but most of the time it’s both.”
~ Kristin Kreuk
“The beginning is always today.”
~ Mary Shelley
I have the honour to be attending a citizenship ceremony today. I have a great story of how I met my new friends. A kind, young man, offered me a ride home from the bike shop we both use. A chance meeting that became a gift for both of us. That very day he offered his support in anyway and he has continued to offer his support. He introduced me to his family. We were strangers from different lands and in different stages of life. I have learned much about their homeland and their challenges to get here. And I have watched, with awe, their determination to be Canadian!
I think it is very special to be a ninth generation Canadian, to witness a ceremony I would never have experience without the chance meeting of a stranger from another land! I take my citizenship for granted. I don’t know the desire and determination to leave my home and hope for acceptance on all fronts. But I bear witness today and joyfully admire and appreciate their journey. I am humbled by the invitation to be a small part of this momentous occasion.
Written by: Deborah Lavender, BMG Senior Consultant
Image Copyright: CCO, www.rawpixel.com
