From Trauma to Tablecloth: Navigating Immigration as a South African in Canada

Hey, folks! It's Christi In Canada here, and today we're delving into a topic close to my heart – trauma and immigration. And hold on to your hat, because we've got a surprising twist involving a tablecloth that might just change the way you see the whole journey. So, grab your popcorn, and let's dive in!

The Family Chat

Cue the music – I've got my mom, Anna, all the way from BC, here with me. Is she visiting me or her granddaughter? Well, that's up for debate. But, more importantly, she's a clinical counselor with a wealth of knowledge about trauma, immigration, and critical incidents.

Defining the Drama: Immigration as a Traumatic Event

Mom drops a truth bomb: Immigration is not just hard; it's a traumatic event. She explains that trauma is anything we feel we don't have control over, and moving to a new country? That's like turning the stress dial up to eleven. Suddenly, you're an alien in tequila land, and stress levels skyrocket.

The Unseen Struggle: Lack of Understanding

But do we, as South African immigrants, acknowledge the difficulty of immigration, or do we just channel our inner 'just going to persevere' spirit? Mom says it's not just a South African thing; it's human nature. And let's be real – can Canadians who've never left their cozy corner of the world really grasp the challenge?

Preparing for the Rollercoaster

So, can you prepare for such a wild ride? Mom's got a checklist for you. But before that, it's crucial to acknowledge the trauma and make meaning of it. You can't fully prepare, but being aware that you can do something about it makes the journey a tad easier.

Closure: Saying Goodbye in Style

Two weeks before immigrating, you need a good closure, not just an ending. It's like having a memorial service for your life in South Africa. Acknowledge the good, say your goodbyes maturely, and, if necessary, throw a mini party to thank South Africa for the good times. Trust me; it's a mature breakup.

The Importance of the Sentimental

Now, what about the new beginning in Canada? You've got to create a sense of safety. Mom's not talking about alarm systems; she's talking about emotional safety. And here comes the unexpected star of the show – a tablecloth. Yes, you read that right.

The Tablecloth: More Than Just Fabric

We may hear about stripping down possessions when immigrating, but Mom argues for holding onto sentimental items. For her, it was a tablecloth – a symbol of home, a reminder that, despite the barren apartment in a not-so-great neighborhood, they were still a family. It's about holding on to something relational, something that says, "This is still us."