Today, I received my work permit. A small card, a big permission: Canada agrees to let me work within its borders. On LinkedIn, though, I see no demand for Palestinian writers with personality quirks.
Since putting the kids in school, I’ve had time. They were thrown into the deep end, into classrooms where they don’t speak the language, where no one explains or helps them. People tell me, “They’ll learn quickly at this age,” but my heart still feels heavy. I call it the taste of half-cooked eggplant—sour, unpleasant, but oddly familiar.
I’ve registered for a free digital course through the Calgary Public Library. How to Publish a Book. But I don’t know what I’m writing anymore or why. Maybe I’m convincing myself that I’m providing some kind of service. But deep down, I know the truth: I write because I love it, and I don’t want to do anything else.
Here, my thoughts are unbound. I’m not tethered to a conversation partner or a specific path. I write words, then delete them. They existed briefly, and now they don’t. No one will ever know what they were. And yet, even in their absence, I wonder: do the things I write affect reality more than I imagined?
Sometimes I feel like I’m writing not for myself, not even for others, but for something greater. I am ashamed, afraid, and grateful all at once. Maybe this book I’m trying to write isn’t the one I’m meant to. Maybe I should stop convincing myself of its importance and simply write for You.
For now, I’ll leave it at this: I’m here. I’m learning to work, to write, to live in this new place. And I’m learning to trust the words that come, even the ones I delete.
Practical Steps for Navigating a New Beginning
Adjusting to life in a new country brings unexpected emotions and challenges. Whether it’s starting over professionally, supporting children through school, or simply finding a sense of purpose, each step is part of the larger journey.
✅ Finding Work in a New Country
- Explore job search platforms like Job Bank Canada.
- Adapt your resume to local hiring standards. Many immigrants face challenges with credential recognition—understanding the requirements early can save time. Read more in Navigating Job Expectations as a Newcomer.
✅ Helping Children Adapt to a New School System
- Schools often lack structured support for non-native speakers. Advocate for additional learning resources if needed.
- Encourage children to engage in extracurricular activities—sports, music, or art can help bridge language gaps.
- Learn more about supporting children through immigration in How to Protect Your Children During Immigration.
✅ Building a Community and Sense of Belonging
- Libraries, local workshops, and cultural organizations offer free courses and networking opportunities.
- Sharing personal experiences with others going through similar challenges fosters connection.
- Discover ways to find support and build relationships in Community Connection: Finding Your Place.
Immigration is not just about logistics—it’s about the emotions, shifts in identity, and the search for meaning. If you’re in the midst of this transition, you’re not alone. Read more stories and insights on navigating immigration at Holygration.
Written by Wa Alikum Salam, Immigrant.
