MY MOTHER'S NEW LIFE
by Christine Nguyen

My mother was a refugee
She escaped from Vietnam
She was lucky for a chance to flee

She had to come on a boat
To a place with freedom like Canada
Where she could even vote.

In Canada there is no war
It was worth coming to Canada
Even if Vietnam was very far.

Determined, she headed to college
Involved in a project
Using her scientific knowledge.

The goal was to protect people from fires
It was done successfully
All of this; I greatly admire.

Now she has a proper education
And a happy life
Without feeling depression.

Currently my mother works as a teacher
To promote Vietnamese heritage
Making Canada’s multi culture richer

By teaching students moral values
Shaping them into future leaders
Passing on the importance of good virtues.

Canada has proper human rights
With many justified laws
Such as no street fights.

But all that matters
Is the happiness
Instead of feeling torn in tatters.

I realize that I am privileged
To grow up in a free country
Canada is greatly appreciated.
My mother, many words come to mind when I think about her.

Hardworking, my mother had worked as a Research Scientist contributes in a special group project of spacecraft applications at University of Toronto. Her work was about inventing a chemical coating that can be used in space or in household products which can protect people from fires.

Caring, my mother has devoted her time to raise my brother and me since we were born. She taught us good moral values in order to become hard working, caring and generous Canadian citizens.

Wise, my mother is working as an International Language Teacher at Don Bosco and St. Jane Frances Catholic Schools. Teaching the Vietnamese Heritage Language and Culture is to develop among the students positive attitudes toward the racial and cultural diversities of our multicultural society.

During all the time I have heard many sad stories about the fall of South Vietnam to the Communist North Vietnamese forces in 1975. The stories inspired me to write a poem, and "My Mother’s New Life” was created.

Author: Christine Nguyen (12 years)
St. Roch Catholic School
Finalist in "Mathieu Da Costa Challenge"
Public Choice Award 2010
Category: Writing - English (9-12 years)
The winner will be announced on April 26, 2010, on the Mathieu Da Costa Challenge website.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/multiculturalism/mathieudacosta/index.asp

(repost on www.LMDCVN.com)