Rick Segal wrote a post about his experience with Canadian immigration officers at the airport: “More often then not ‘Welcome back’ or ‘Welcome home’ is the norm when rolling into Canada.”
It reminded me that last week was my sixth anniversary as a landed immigrant and permanent resident in Canada. When I arrived at Pearson Airport in March 2000 with my immigration papers in my hand and a lot of nervousness in my eyes, the customs officer grabbed the papers and shook my hands while shouting “welcome to Canada, glad to have you here!” Could anyone ask for a better beginning to a new life in a new country?
Rick Segal says just being nice is a good start. I agree. And it can help others get off to a great start.