Welcome to Canada

With a glowing heart, patriotic pride

I saw them rise, some people, strong and free
From far and wide, my Canada,

They stood in praise of thee

A young Indian woman

In her new-found home

Feels safe, is safe

While travelling alone

An Iranian woman

Who is finally free

To feel her long hair

Blown by a breeze

A grateful woman from China

Pursues education as the answer

So she can give back,

Hopes to eradicate cancer

An Egyptian man

Concerned for the shade of his skin

Found it wasn't an issue -

He easily fit in

A Venezuelan man

Who sadly said farewell

To family, friends, a job

Is faring very well

A Mexican family

Finding a new home

With opportunities

In our land of hope

A Belgian man,

World traveller and wise

Said with certainty,

“This is paradise”

This is Canada,

A welcoming nation rich with diversity

Where nationalities, cultures, customs

Are part of our identity

God keep our land

Glorious and free

To expand and blossom
From sea to sea to sea

---
March 16, 2016 
Written after my husband's Canadian citizenship ceremony.