Another (American) Thanksgiving is here, and this one feels less bittersweet than the last seven I’ve celebrated in Canada. Sure, I’d love a five-day weekend at home, filled with family, football, and feasting. Yes, it’s strange to treat this Thursday like any other school day while my inbox alternates between Thanksgiving wishes and Black Friday deals. But this year, there’s something different.
Becoming a Canadian citizen earlier this year has reframed how I see this moment. On what felt like an ordinary day, I joined a Zoom ceremony, where others celebrated with flags, decorations, and loved ones in tow. What struck me was how monumental this was for them. For me, adding a second citizenship was more practical at first, but as the ceremony unfolded, I felt the significance. Canada has given my family so much—safety, stability, and opportunity—and I’m deeply grateful.
This feeling was reinforced just yesterday when I met a family considering a move from the U.S. to Ottawa for the sake of their child’s safety. I love America, flaws and all, but I don’t miss writing about gun violence. I loved my U.S. college years but appreciate the affordability of Canadian universities. I value choosing my own doctors but am relieved to avoid the risk of medical bankruptcy.
Of course, no country is perfect. I remain proud to be an American, and I’m equally grateful to call Canada home. On this American Thanksgiving, I’m reflecting on the blessings that both countries—and others—have given me.
What I’m grateful for this (American) Thanksgiving:
- The gifts of growing up, learning, and working in the United States, and the privilege of raising my daughters in Canada.
- The safety and security provided by the men and women defending Israel, our Holy Homeland. We pray for the safe return of all hostages and for peace. Am Yisrael Chai.
- Living in a society that values work-life balance, even if I’m not always great at embracing it. I hope my daughters will do better as they grow.
- A Jewish community here in Ottawa that is generous, capable, and deeply committed to Jewish day school education.
- The hardworking, dedicated teachers who make our school an extraordinary place for students to grow. A school is only as good as its teachers, and ours are exceptional.
Finally, I’m grateful to you, readers. Writing over 500 blog posts can sometimes feel like shouting into the void, but every comment, share, or acknowledgment reminds me that someone out there is listening. That still means a lot after all these years.
For my friends in the U.S.—enjoy Thanksgiving! For my friends in Canada—have a great Thursday!
As usual, thoughtful and well written with a light touch. I enjoy your writing. Keep it coming!
Hi Jon.
I enjoyed reading this blog. It brought back memories. My x-husband moved us to Los Angeles for 1 year to work with a famous U.S.Neurologist in Los Angeles. My ex then moved us to San Diego and I lived there for 21 years. Two of my 3 daughters married and live in San Diego. Married Daughter no. 1 lives in Vancouver. Thank goodness for facetime! I feel proud to be a citizen in both countries but the tax returns for both countries, particularly in the U.S. are complicated. I have a teaching credential from the U.S. and Canada and this winter I have decided to take my credential with me. We are in Hollywood, Florida on the beach and there is an elementary school 6 blocks away. I am hoping to offer my skills for free at the school. I have been tutoring reading and writing online for quite a while. We normally don’t come back at this time but my partner, Ken’s daughter is having a baby any day now. We know it’s a boy so we won’t be going back until after the bris. Sorry to talk your ‘ear’ off. Have a wonderful Chanukah! Linda Signer