May 2nd was the date for a national election in Canada. I was told that I would be able to register to vote on the spot at the poll. All that was required was a photo ID and proof of residency such as a utility bill or a lease, something with my address. As it happened my lease just went into effect the day before. That Monday I went over to the polling place for my riding (district) and sure enough they signed me right up. Well, there was just a moment of discussion while the official looked over my lease. I placed my paper ballot in the cardboard box and I was back home within fifteen minutes.
 | When I got there Toni had our first batch of mail in hand. There was a lot of junk mail but there was also a census form in the pile. Canada conducts a head count every five years, on years ending with 1 and 6. What are the odds that within just a couple of days of living in a new country that these two national events would coincide? That is instant immersion.
If you think about it, the election and the census are both forms of a national snapshot. I feel very lucky to be included.
I am pretty sure I was smiling.
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