Obligation: Part 1

How quickly time has past.

It's been almost 7 years since I first stepped foot in this country. I still remember how overwhelmed I felt as I realized that I was moving 8000+ miles from all I've known. Was I really ready for this type of independence? It wasn't at all what I had planned. I was supposed to move to the Philippines, just like the rest of my graduating high school class. I didn't even have the 12 years of school required to attend university...

But at 16, I had the 10 years necessary to get into a good college.

My parents saw an opportunity and they urged me to grab it, even though there was a risk that they might not be able to see me during the whole of my undergraduate degree (considering Filipinos aren't always so lucky to obtain a tourist visa). Plus their out of pocket expenses would triple (or more) that of a Philippine based university.

Looking back now, I'm thankful of their decision. Despite the initial culture shock, some language barriers (slang, expressions and whatnot), and constant homesickness, I've grown so much. This is definitely the land of opportunity for those who seek and work for it.
(Not to mention I met the hubby here :D)...

I've been reminiscing lately because I've now been a permanent resident (PR) slightly over three years. For those who may not be aware, three years is the minimum amount of time a PR needs to be eligible for citizenship, assuming residence was established through marriage. This particular rule is actually a big reason behind sham marriages. That aside, it seems people back home have started 'talking' regarding my apparent delay in filing for citizenship. Most people would be up and ready 90 days before the 3 year mark even hit.

So why am I not rushing?

(to be continued...)