This week I am very honoured to have my friend Solomon join me. He became a Canadian citizen in a citizenship ceremony on the day we recorded. His pure joy and happiness touched me, a Canadian by birth.

We met for tea shortly after the ceremony was done. He had stopped on the way at the Dutch Bakery to pick up some of his favourite treats for a celebration. He didn’t stop grinning the entire time we talked! Although he has lived here for 6 years, it was like he was looking around our community with new eyes, and a feeling he described as now truly ‘belonging’. His euphoria was almost tangible.

One of Solomon’s favourite places is downtown Victoria. He likes to walk around and take in the sights, the architecture, and the people. The busy-ness of this small city reminds him of where he came from. So after a couple of hours, we went for lunch on a shaded patio, and enjoyed Japanese-Korean food. It perfectly underscored Canada - an amazing mix of cultures, people, and food. Rather fitting for the occasion.

As he works in the health sector, his commitment to Canada, and determination to contribute to Canada, is much-needed. I hope you’ll join me in welcoming one of Canada’s newest citizens, Solomon.

IIRC website

Discover Canada - written

Discover Canada - audio