Sitting here at my desk, I do that occasionally, I see a country that isn’t what it used to be. I remember a time when we had balance—work, family, and a sense of belonging. But something’s changed, and it’s happening fast. Now, this isn’t just about welcoming people to our country anymore; it’s about how quickly we’ve let it unfold, and now it’s hitting home for many of us.

You feel it in the job market, where young Canadians can’t seem to find a foothold. Walk into certain stores, and suddenly, speaking one of Canada’s official languages isn’t enough—as in some cases you need to know a foreign one to even get hired. Truth told, I have found in some instances even ordering a coffee and donuts is a challenge. Is that really the plan we signed up for?

Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m not against immigration. The issue isn’t immigration itself; I believe it’s the speed at which it’s happening, and how unprepared we’ve been for such a rapid shift. Housing prices are soaring, and jobs seem harder to come by. Meanwhile, newcomers appear to be thriving, while many long-time Canadians are being left behind. Something about this just doesn’t sit right with me.

The truth is, we all want to see others succeed. But when did we stop looking out for the people already here? It’s not about closing the door; it’s about asking, “Are we doing this right?” The government threw the doors wide open, but did anyone pause to consider how it would affect the workers, the families trying to get by? Or the rise in crime, which we’re seeing more of these days?.

Maybe it’s time we start asking these questions instead of letting things slip out of control. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see the tension growing—you can feel it. If we don’t address it soon, it could be too late.

Finally, I understand that, immigration can be a good thing, but not when it overwhelms the very people who’ve built this country, and are now struggling to keep up.

So here’s the thought for this evening: “How much more can we take before the Canada we know is no longer recognizable?”

GW, thinking out loud, as always.