Olympic Pride

For the first time I cannot say I have lived in Canada longer than I have lived in the United States. I will be an alien of twelve years this summer, and at the age of twenty-four, this makes my primary national residence split right down the middle of my life timeline.

My husband always bothers me about cheering for Canada in the Olympics and having pride in my home country. He accuses me of living in the past. Since I am currently a US resident, why wouldn't I devote my alliances to America?

The truth is that it is not about how long I have lived at a certain address. It is more than this-- Canada IS my childhood. Canada is my teddy bear, worn out because she was so loved. Canada is the comforting smell of my mom's perfume when she hugs me. It is my cozy and dry clothes, after swimming or skiing. Canada is a delicious homemade dinner after playing outside all day long. It is my first memories of Christmas, surrounded by family, food and a fire burning in the fireplace. In many ways, Canada is home... home to the child in me.

This year, my husband and I will be watching the Olympics from Australia. Of course, Michael had it coming when I asked him if he would be cheering for Oz, since this is where we currently live. I think he is finally starting to understand my commitment to the country on my passport. Who will you be supporting this Olympic season?