Some Things Changed When I Came to Canada

Feb 15, 2012 by Sentinel

By Hye Won Choi

I arrived in Castlegar last fall, and it’s been six weeks since I left my hometown. During this time I have changed in many ways. First of all, my health has improved. I don’t have a specific disease, but I feel better in my body than before. For instance, I digest food very well, and therefore I am hungry frequently. I now wake up easily in the morning. Certainly, I am less stressed. That’s why my health is better; I have some good habits. Sleep early, and wake up early. I hadn’t imagined this lifestyle before in Korea, where I usually couldn’t get up in the morning. Now I haven’t been absent or late from school since the start of the fall semester. It’s a really amazing thing to me. In addition, I always keep my room clean and clear. For example, I make the bed with sheets in the morning, and I clean washroom once in a week. I don’t know the reason. I just feel, unconsciously, that I should clean my room.
Also, I now cook. It’s one of the most positive changes. I didn’t do any cooking in Korea because I was very busy. Moreover, there are so many kinds of restaurants in my hometown. Although I just assist my home stay mom when she is cooking, I have grown to enjoy this.
I spend less money here. The reason is simple: Castlegar doesn’t tempt me to shop. Actually I just don’t need more clothes and food. I live in a home stay. There is always a lot of food. I don’t care as much about fashion as much as in Korea. I’m pretty comfortable.
Lastly, I now speak English. Before, I didn’t speak a word of English. I was very confused and embarrassed, and thus I avoided English all the time. I don’t have choice in this country. I must use English. It’s still amazing how I can converse with other people using English. I’ve made quiet changes over these six weeks, and I think it’s okay. I am doing just fine. I hope to enjoy this life.