Today I became a North American. I was sworn in as a Canadian citizen.
 
The team at Renewal and Hollyhock Leadership Institute were waiting with a cake, a flag, a fun video on being Canadian, and we all sang O Canada with our maple leaf pins on.
 
Though I’ve been in Canada for many years in a variety of capacities, including guest, home owner, business owner, board member, consultant, work permit, and permanent resident/landed immigrant, it's a very big deal now to be fully rooted.
 
Last year the universal health care system transferred Shivon Robinsong's kidney into me to give me a new lease on life, an astonishing rebirth. Many aspects of Canada, some subtle, others dramatic, make it a true honour to be a full participant. See www.canadianalternative.com for info on how you might consider a life in this extraordinary nation.
 
Canada and the USA allow dual citizenship and I have the extra privilege of carrying two passports.
 
The ceremony is sweet, meaningful, and moving. Eighty eight of us from twenty two countries gathered with loved ones to hear inspired talks about values, diversity, citizenship responsibilities, freedom to practice our own spiritual beliefs, VOTING, and were encouraged to bring our histories and traditions into the mix that is the multiculturalism that makes Canada so unique.
 
There is a palpable feeling of emotion in the room as the French and the English versions of affirming our oaths mingle in unity. Cameras flash, families hug, beaming images with the Judge and his impish heartfelt welcome to us all.
 
I love paying most of my taxes in Canada. And I get to vote just in the nick of time. Super important Federal elections on October 14, USA elections on November 4 (yes one is able to vote in both countries), and Vancouver municipal elections on November 15. Use it or lose it. Participate or hand over your power.
 
Thank you Canada for welcoming me so graciously and openly.

Read Linda Solomon's blog about Joel becoming a Canadian in The Vancouver Observer.