International Club of Ottawa

Invocation Speech

The International Club of Ottawa, 18 September 2018

 

President of ICO, Mrs. Deborah W.

Chairperson and members of Committees of ICO

Dear Friends from Diplomatic Community

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

Good morning!

First of All, I would like to thank International Club of Ottawa and all its members for creating the perks of living in Ottawa. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation, on behalf of the diplomatic community, for the warm welcome from ICO members. Through ICOs activities, we make new friends, we have lively interaction, and as a result, the friendship flourished. That is the beauty of living and for some of us, working in Ottawa. It makes our short stay in Ottawa memorable. Please give ICO executives and committees a big round applause.

I am standing here not to give a big speech, but rather to share my own experience with ICO. Indeed, it is an honour for me to say few words in invocation speech at the Welcoming Tea this year.

Sharing experience among members of ICO is one way to enrich our own experience and broaden our horizon. I can say with confidence that international community in Ottawa is grateful with the presence of ICO.

ICO is like a second home for me and I believe it is the case for my fellow international members, the spouses of diplomats from the embassies. ICO, not only offers friendship, but also cultivate our potentials and interests in many areas through its different committees. Again, through this interaction, we are bonding regardless our cultural backgrounds, beliefs and interests. The bond and this relationship not only enrich our experiences, but also, believe it or not, give benefit to our health in general. The latter is based on a research shared by Susan Pinker, a Canadian, by the way, who suggests that the key to living a long life is to nurture close personal relationships and face-to-face interactions. I guess ICO scores high in this regard.

Having said that, I am encouraging new international members, spouses of diplomats from many countries, to actively participate in many activities organized by ICO. You may take up a new interest or a hobby, or to continue an activity that you are passionate about. ICO has many activities throughout the year that help you better understanding Canadian cultures and history, and unique aspects from each representative country in this club. I am positive that you will find those activities fascinating.

I have observed and involved in few of ICO activities, and to the best of my knowledge, ICO has put remarkable efforts in preparing its programs. We may take it for granted, but the works behind ICO and arrangements of all activities throughout the year, are really a tough job! This is a volunteer based organization and all great women behind the scene are doing it out of love and they are doing a fantastic job!! Please put your hands together for the wonderful women who have done a great job year in and year out.

We love you all! Thank you.