People have been migrating across the globe for millenia and we know that arriving in a new place is just the beginning of the journey. The real adventure is what happens afterwards; the highs and lows, the twists and turns, and the mixing of cultures and traditions. My story starts in a tiny village nestled among the foothills of the Himalaya mountains and meanders its way through Canada. It is filled with many lessons learned the hard way, including how to eat corn-on-the-cob, skating on ice for the first time, the agony of failing an eye exam, the pressure of having to excel at school and university, and the joy of eating birthday cake for breakfast. I have had the good fortune of having wonderful and inspiring “teachers”, of all sorts, guide me along the entire way. Eventually it led to the path of my becoming a physician, fiercely proud of my roots and also incredibly thankful for all the people who supported my family and I along the way.
My story is uniquely mine but shares much with generations of other immigrants who have moved to a new world, often struggling initially but working tirelessly to make a better future for their families and loved ones. In doing so, we have all enriched the places we have populated. Specifically in Canada, we have helped make this country an oasis of diversity and acceptance, in a world that still often eyes newcomers with suspicion. My life has shown me, and hopefully will convince you, that we can only truly survive and thrive in our new “homes” with the love and support of friends, neighbours and entire communities. And much patience, understanding, acceptance, compromise and a dash of humour is required by all. I am grateful to call myself a “Canadian” and help contribute to the fabric of this great nation!
You can purchase Beyond the Village: My Grateful Journey at the following retailers:
Black Squirrel Books
Singing Pebble Books
Amazon Canada
Dr. Rajiv Samant
Rajiv Samant was born in India, though he mainly grew up in Nova Scotia in the 1970s and 1980s. He is the son of South Asian immigrants and is now a physician living and working in Ottawa. "Beyond the Village: My Grateful Journey" is his second book and describes his family roots, the journey from India to Canada, and his early life in his new homeland. Perhaps it most importantly describes how his family adapted to their new home through hard work, friendships and community. It also highlights the importance of gratitude and kindness that play a big part in having a meaningful and contented life.