National Adult Literacy Database

April 24, 2006

The following story was written by Abla Chaaban, from Edmonton, Alberta. Abla is originally from Lebanon and she has been in Canada since 1998. She is enrolled in literacy classes at "Changing Together", a women's agency.

My Dream

by Abla Chaaban

When I was in my country Lebanon, I always dreamt about going to school. Then I would laugh at myself because I was married and 40 years old.

I also had six children. I had to cook for my husband and children and clean house. I had a lot of responsibilities.

Came to Canada

I came to Canada in 1998 as a visitor. Six months later, I applied to be a refugee. I got my refugee status three years later.

Then an immigration officer suggested I go learn English. Suddenly, I remembered my dream.

I am so thankful to the government of Canada for sending me to school. They made my dream come true.

[This story was taken with permission, from English Express, March 2006, a free newspaper for adult learners, published by Alberta Advanced Education.]