Introduction

Growing up as a first-generation Canadian with parents from Punjab, my life has been a unique blend of cultural richness and personal challenges. My parents’ journey to Canada was marked by dreams and sacrifices, deeply influencing my own quest for purpose. As an only child, navigating this path has been a solitary yet enlightening journey, shaped by my family’s aspirations and my own passions.

Embracing Dual Identities

Living between two cultures has been both a gift and a challenge. At home, I was enveloped in Punjabi traditions, speaking the language and embracing cultural practices. Outside, I was just another Canadian kid, trying to blend in and embrace the local culture.

 

• • Cultural Expectations: My father, with his master’s degree in political science, had dreamt of becoming a lawyer. However, after immigrating to Canada, he was unable to work in his field, which was a source of both pride and unfulfilled ambition for him. My mother, a creative soul who dreamt of making fashionable clothes and becoming a professional seamstress, found her priorities shifting after marriage. These unfulfilled dreams cast a long shadow, instilling in me a deep sense of responsibility to honour their sacrifices.

• • Language Barriers: My parents struggled with navigating the English language, which meant I often took on the role of translator and supporter from a young age. This responsibility helped me develop strong communication skills and a deep sense of empathy.

Celebrating Punjabi Culture

One of the most enriching aspects of my upbringing was celebrating Punjabi culture. This was not just about festivals but about daily practices, values, and traditions that shaped who I am.

 

• • Language: Speaking Punjabi at home helped me stay connected to my roots. It wasn’t just a means of communication but a way to understand and appreciate the nuances of my heritage. Conversations with my parents and elders in Punjabi deepened my connection to our cultural identity.

• • Values and Traditions: The values instilled in me by my parents, such as respect for elders, the importance of family, and a strong work ethic, were central to our culture. These values guided me in my personal and professional life, helping me navigate challenges with resilience and integrity.

• • Art and Music: Punjabi music and dance, such as bhangra and giddha, added joy and vibrancy to our lives. These artistic expressions were not just forms of entertainment but also a way to connect with our cultural roots and celebrate our identity.

The Role of Education

Education became a cornerstone of my journey toward finding purpose. It was a path my parents valued deeply, seeing it as a gateway to opportunities they had missed.

 

• • Academic Pressure: My parents’ emphasis on education was relentless. My father’s unfulfilled legal aspirations and my mother’s creative dreams placed a weighty expectation on my shoulders. This pressure was a driving force behind my academic pursuits, pushing me to excel in a system my parents were still learning to navigate.

• • Exploration and Discovery: Through my education, I explored a myriad of interests. From science and literature to social justice and the arts, each subject opened new doors and brought me closer to understanding what truly resonated with me.

Navigating Marriage Expectations

Marriage was another significant expectation that shaped my journey. In our culture, the idea of pursuing education while being married was often emphasized.

 

• • Family Expectations: My grandmother would often tell me that I could continue my education while being married, reflecting a common expectation in our community. However, seeing my parents’ experiences, I wanted to finish my dreams first and know what achieving my own goals felt like before entering marriage.

• • Personal Goals: This determination to prioritize my own dreams first was not just about personal ambition but about understanding and experiencing fulfilment on my own terms. I wanted to ensure that I could stand on my own two feet, both professionally and personally, before taking on the additional responsibilities of marriage.

The Role of the Library

The library became a cornerstone of my journey to finding purpose. It was a sanctuary where I could explore, learn, and grow.

 

• • Academic Support: The library was a place where I could get help with homework, access resources, and find a quiet space to study. The availability of books, computers, and knowledgeable staff empowered me to work hard in my education and never give up.

• • Social Hub: It was also a place where I could socialise with friends and be part of a community. The library offered various programs and activities that helped me connect with others who shared similar interests.

• • Expanding Horizons: Reading books from all over the world expanded my mind and opened my eyes to new perspectives. It fuelled my curiosity and inspired me to learn about different cultures, histories, and ideas.

• • Empowerment: The library empowered me to pursue my dreams. It provided the tools and resources I needed to excel academically and personally. The sense of achievement and self-reliance I gained from my time at the library was invaluable.

Connecting with Animals and the Environment

Growing up on a farm, I developed a deep love for animals and a connection with the environment from an early age. These experiences became integral to my sense of purpose.

 

• • Love for Animals: Interacting with various animals on the farm—cows, goats, chickens, and more—instilled in me a profound respect and affection for all living creatures. Caring for them taught me responsibility, compassion, and the importance of a harmonious relationship with nature.

• • Nurturing and Caregiving: These experiences on the farm, nurturing and caring for animals, played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue social work and counselling. The skills and values I learned—empathy, patience, and dedication—naturally extended to my desire to help people. I realised that just as animals need care and attention, so do people, especially those facing challenges in life.

Overcoming Challenges

The road to finding purpose was fraught with obstacles. Each challenge presented an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

 

• • Identity Crisis: There were moments when I grappled with my identity, questioning who I was and what I stood for. These periods of self-doubt were crucial, pushing me to delve deeper into my own values and beliefs.

• • Balancing Aspirations: Balancing my parents’ unfulfilled dreams with my own aspirations required delicate negotiation. It was a dance of compromise and assertion, learning to honour their sacrifices while pursuing my own path.

The Influence of Community

Community has played a vital role in my journey. The support and connections I found within various communities helped me navigate the complexities of my dual identity.

 

• • Cultural Community: Engaging with others who shared my background provided a sense of belonging and understanding. These interactions helped me appreciate my heritage and its role in shaping who I am.

• • Broader Community: Building relationships outside my cultural circle enriched my perspective and fostered a sense of unity in diversity. These experiences reinforced the idea that purpose is often intertwined with our interactions and contributions to the wider community.

Discovering My Passion

As I navigated through my educational journey and personal experiences, I began to identify what truly ignited my passion. It was a blend of my heritage, personal interests, and the desire to make a difference.

 

• • Heritage and Advocacy: My background inspired me to advocate for immigrant communities and address issues of diversity and inclusion. I found purpose in raising awareness and promoting understanding between different cultural groups.

• • Love for Animals: My deep love for animals became a significant part of my identity. Growing up on a farm and interacting with animals daily taught me about responsibility, compassion, and the importance of a harmonious relationship with nature.

• • Social Work and Counselling: Inspired by my nurturing experiences with animals and my desire to help others, I pursued social work and counselling. This path allowed me to channel my empathy and dedication into meaningful support for individuals and communities facing difficulties.

Conclusion: An Ongoing Journey

Finding purpose is not a destination but an ongoing journey. As a first-generation Canadian with roots in Punjab, I have come to appreciate the unique blend of challenges and opportunities that come with this identity. My parents’ sacrifices and dreams are a driving force, but so are my own passions and aspirations.

 

In embracing both my heritage and my individuality, I continue to navigate life with a sense of purpose that evolves with each experience. This journey has taught me that purpose is not just about personal fulfilment but also about contributing to the world around us, making it a better place for future generations. Through honouring my parents’ legacy and pursuing my own passions, I strive to create a meaningful and impactful life.

 

Harp Shergill, BSW, MSW, RSW