Living in Canada
On January 30, 2004, Ming De and Zhen Yu arrived in British Columbia Canada. Reunited with three of their children and their families, Ming De and Zhen Yu now began the challenge of adapting to life in a new culture and country.
Adapting to life in Canada as newly arrived seniors in their 70’s who did not speak English certainly had its challenges for Ming De and Zhen Yu. As Mandarin speakers they could not communicate with anyone outside of immediate family and some friends in the local Chinese community. They missed their friends, their other son and other extended family members who remained back in China. Here in Canada they had less support and were unfamiliar with the customs and culture of Canada. Loneliness and isolation were regular companions during their first few months in Canada and, on many occasions, they thought about returning to China.
In spite of these obstacles, they were both determined to make the best of their new life in Canada, Ming De and Zhen Yu enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at the local settlement agency. They studied hard and took every opportunity to practice their English with other newcomers and Canadians. Gradually, their English improved as they moved from level 1 ESL through to level 3 ESL classes.
Participating in the community was also a vital part of their adaptation to life in Canada. Ming De and Zhen Yu enjoy being active and spending time outdoors or in their family garden. They joined the local recreation centre to take advantage of the swimming pool and exercise classes. They walk whenever and wherever they can. Eager to meet with other immigrant seniors they joined the local Multicultural Seniors Group- and formed instant friendships that provided more opportunities to practice their English and learn about other cultures and countries.
Eager to contribute to and maintain their own Chinese heritage, Ming De and Zhen Yu became members of the local Victoria Chinese Seniors Association. They participate in the Chinese senior’s traditional dance troupe and give public performances in cultural celebrations throughout the city.
Ming De and Zhen Yu also love to cook traditional Chinese dishes for their friends and family. Preparing dishes from their homeland is a vital part of sharing and maintaining their cultural heritage with their family and others in the community.
