I, personally, don't know of anyone making the same move, and know of only a few who actually would if they could. This isn't to say there aren't more people interested in doing so, but, apparently, many are reticent about uprooting one and all, even in their discontent. Still, the internet has garnered me news of other Americans who had undertaken the same process and, by now, have left, not all for Canada.
Support for this decision has come from many, including a distant relative who is a Vietnam veteran residing in the U.S. Friends and acquaintances have shown marked interest and/or provided encouragement, although I'm not certain all of them actually know my reasons for leaving the country. Family members have shared the desire, if not immediately the goal. If anyone has suggested that I not do this, it was because they felt my political spirit was needed in the U.S. And to think my efforts haven't been nearly as pronounced as countless others who are pulling for the same cause. If anyone has strongly disagreed, I've long since forgotten who they are.
Of course, we've all heard how frustrated, even miserable, liberals are welcome to leave the U.S. Good riddance! I can almost hear the booming choral echo of those on the left who reciprocate those wishes, knowing those on the right must sleep in the bed they've made. Alas, those on the left are trying desperately not to.
There has been a concerned interest for the children, primarily, with regard to language and education. My responsibilities inherent in the emigration process have included how they were expected to communicate and learn within any school system. My response has been, just as they teach English as a Second Language here, they teach Something as a Second Language there.
Close on those heels has been the "chin above water" issue of jobs. Members of our extended family have wondered about employment. You can support yourselves here, but what are you going to do over there? My husband works in computers and I have teaching credentials and have been writing, primarily, poetry. You can guess we've been aiming for IT and/or teaching jobs, although writing jobs did enter the pool of prospects. It has been rather heartening that this issue is of less concern to our immediate family, as they've been more closely aware of how we've led our lives.
No one among family, friends or acquaintances has suggested I stay or implied it is wrong to leave. Still, for some, the idea of leaving would involve a longer rest from the embattling and torrential rain of conservatism than they would have chosen to endure. It is with admiration for them and the blessing of those close to us that I take my family and go.
