Unique things I have learnt while in Canada

Canadians value diversity: Canada’s commitment to diversity is what really distinguishes it from the rest of the countries. In Canada, you will find people from all over the world. You will be allowed to express yourself and nobody will discriminate you on any grounds be it your race, religion, culture, language, and sexuality.This country welcomes approximately 250,000 immigrants(new people) each year, all excited with the prospect of a quality of life offered by a country that prides itself in diversity.Hence,you will always feel at home, because you will interact with lots of people from various backgrounds,cultures, and upbringing. Courtesy: Have you ever heard of the words, ‘Please” and “Thank You”,and Sorry. Find out what these words mean because you will need them in abundance here. Courtesy is paramount around here, there are no excuses for any sort of rudeness, and even then it doesn't get you anywhere, courtesy will. Time: When I was growing up in Kenya, I used to hear people say African time, Kenyan time etc. That does not work around here, if you have an appointment with anyone, be it a doctor, professor, employer etc, 10 am means exactly that. There is no room for excuses for showing up one hour late here, people value time, after all most people are paid per the hour, in some cases you get penalized for lateness. Appreciation and value of blue collar jobs: Am probably going to receive a lot of stick for saying this, but the truth is people here are proud of their jobs. Back in Kenya, you will hardly hear anyone proudly say, am a watchman or security personnel. All people want to be classified as working in is a white collar job; often you will hear people say they are lawyers, Doctor, Engineer Etc, even if they are not, because it’s cool. Unfortunately, in these parts of the world you will realize that a plumber probably makes more than a banker. People who work in trades, such as carpentry, barber,health care/social work make enough income to enjoy a quality life. It’s okay to work in these industries as long as most of your money is diligently invested. (Don’t get me wrong I am not justifying anything, I don’t work in any of the industries mentioned, BUT it’s the plain truth) The value of women and children; I remember while in primary school (elementary or secondary school, we used to get capital punishment for even a minor mistake. Students would receive a beating; parents would punish their kids mercilessly, etc. Sadly, that doesn't work here; there is no tolerance for such behavior at all. The same case applies for women. Canada is a world leader in the promotion and protection of women’s rights and gender equality. You have to respect and in times of disagreement share opinion with your wife or girlfriend through negotiation as equals. Hard work is rewarded: If you work hard, diligently and stay focused this country offers a fair chance to succeed. Forget about the American dream, Canada has its own dream, not as marketed as the American one, but equally realizable, and I would argue based on present economic conditions, better.You just have to network, be patient and make the most of your opportunities presented.