My American Dream was in Finland

This is the story of my move to Finland. This is a story that is very close to my heart and this is really the first time I'm telling it publicly. I probably missed a lot of details but feel free to ask questions in the comments.
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Where I work
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cocomms.com
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Tags
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[@terezatalvikkimetsola5079]

I fell in love with Finland when I was 15 years old. So I couldn't do anything about that back then...I had no money, no support from family either, so I couldn't even travel to Finland to study or anything. When I was 20, I took all money I had, bought one way ticket, payed a language course at university, and I went...I had hostel booked for 3 nights and nothing more...but I somehow managed to find a place to stay until the course ended..unfortunately I didn't get any job after that and my family just sent me ticket to get back, they refused to support me in my staying in Finland. Then I met a guy, who fell in love with me and then with Finland too... Few years later, we took all our money and bought an old house in the countryside...and here we are....six years living next to the forest, slowly renovating the house, still without a bathroom (having sauna instead)...lots of work still ahead of us, but man...I understand you so well. I still cry these days, everytime I have to leave, although I know I am coming back. But I am home here...nowhere else. I love this place so much that it hurts...

[@LukeBland]

I feel you. ❤️🙏🏼

[@c-fb]

Wow❤️

[@tylsimys67]

So the "guy" wasn't Finnish and few years later you still manage with our high taxation and strictly regulated housing/property laws to "live next to the forest without bathroom, having sauna instead"...? Stinks to high heaven...

[@anni9666]

@@tylsimys67 No it does not, don´t be so negative.

[@anttikorpela3259]

It's awesome and emotional to read your experience. I'm native and born in Oulu. It's lovely that you have found your place here and wonderful thing that you have found your home in Finland. It's always moving and emotional to me when I hear stories about people who fell in "love" to this beautiful country and understand our culture and values. Very heart warming story. I Hope you and your man all the best and success in life. I think it's important that you know that you get support from native people and you feel like home in Finland. We Finn's don't always understand how good things are in this country and most take all this for granted. They don't stop to think how good we have compared to rest of the world. We native born should learn to respect and appreciate our country more. All the love and keep on renovating you home ☺️☺️👍👍

[@monasandin762]

I too have a similar story. I was born in Finland, but was 4 when my parents immigrated to Canada and then from there to the States. At age 70 I felt the urge to move back home to the country of my birth. I sold my car which gave me the funds to leave. I left everything else behind. Packed one suitcase and had sent 2 small boxes ahead to my cousins home. To make a long story short I missed my flight so I had to purchase another ticket which left me very low on funds. When I got to Finland I applied to have my Finnish citizenship reinstated, and was told it could take up to 6 months to go through. After only one month I had paper work in hand stating that I was once again a Finnish citizen. I am where I belong. I have found the peace and serenity that I so needed. Have been here now for almost 2 years with no regrets.

[@JimmyRingz]

Amazing, welcome back. Really emotional stories, yours and his.

[@Weak1987]

Thank you. Happy you came home 😊

[@tylsimys67]

"At age 70" well that's some urge.

[@sonicluffypucca96]

I would love to live on the land of the midnight sun and 50,000 lakes and saunas

[@monasandin762]

@MI have been here now for 3 years. Love it still and never intend on leaving. I never did stop speaking Finnish so the transition was painless. I have lots of cousins here. It ended up being less expensive for me to live here than in USA. Iloinen olla kotona.

[@hannahbland8504]

THATS MY BIG BRO!!!!!!!!

[@LukeBland]

What’s up Hanna 🙌🏼😄

[@davehenderson6125]

I've been at a real crossroads lately myself. The kind that often keeps me awake at night. When my family and I traveled around Finland in 2017 my wife loved everything about the country. As an outdoors-person she was surprised how clean, healthy, and well-managed the forests & lands are, she loved how comfortable it was to walk even in the largest crowds in downtown Helsinki and, despite hearing how difficult it could be to talk to Finnish strangers, she was continually surprised & grateful for the many kind & patient Finnish people who offered us assistance when we were turned-around in transit or figuring out how to get to Oulu & Rovaniemi during Juhannus at the train station. Elizabeth wanted so much to go back to see it all in the Winter, but none of us knew we were going to lose her that November until six weeks before it happened. Now I spend many of my nights watching KZbin videos because the silence is sometimes overwhelming. I'll get through this because it's what she wanted and I have our teenage sons to raise, but we have my mother's family in Finland and I've considered moving there, if only for a while, to maybe meet more of them and learn more about the country. I think Elizabeth (Bitty) would've loved the idea. Our sons support it too, although they're not very interested in moving abroad themselves at this time; at 14 & 17 years old, though, they're quite independent and we have lots of family members here that would be happy to help out. They're adapting fairly well but I don't want to be too far away just yet. I already have the air miles ready to go, and it's at times like this when I really wonder what's really holding me back. You're an inspiration Luke. Thank you.

[@Ville860]

Sorry for your loss, support from Finland to you Dave !

[@LukeBland]

Dave... I’m speechless. I’m so sorry to hear about Elizabeth. I can’t imagine what it’s like to lose someone so close to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you for strength to overcome this. When you decide to use those frequent flyer miles, let me know. Would love to meet you!

[@aahpuuh]

do what feels right, dave. much love to you and your sons.

[@davehenderson6125]

@@LukeBland Thank you so much Luke. I would like that very much as well.

[@davehenderson6125]

@@Ville860 Thank you. I'm very grateful for your kind thoughts.

[@wizandoz]

Begun to watch the video with attitude on "How can a man talk 19 minutes about moving to Finland." Ended up watching the whole thing and cheering for you at the end. Great story and welcome home!

[@LukeBland]

I know it was quite long 😬 but thank you 🙏🏼

[@davecad]

I've been waiting for this videos for a very long time. Nice man. Such a great story! Edit after watching the video in its entirety several times: I'm not crying, you're crying...

[@LukeBland]

😄 Thanks Dave 🙏🏼

[@a.f.cfyldefan3382]

Hi cave dad

[@a.f.cfyldefan3382]

Hi dave

[@getrelaxed3848]

Daaaave hehe hey man,can't wait to meet you next year in Finland :D

[@poe5418]

Dave Cad ... It's because you're pregnant.

[@phoenixjklin]

Never thought the country I've lived in all my life could mean so much to someone else. As someone who wants to move to another country, I guess this just goes to show that sometimes you belong somewhere else than you originally thought you did, and that home isn't always the place you were born.

[@LukeBland]

This is true. And it’s not about one place being better than another. It’s more about where you fit, maybe.

[@torpmorp1324]

Luke Bland maybe it’s the clean air? But there are other places to discover in the EU too. I suppose you are entitled to live and work anywhere in the EU and get most of the benefits a EU citizen would.

[@korvapuustit]

home is where you make it!

[@Alexandros.Mograine]

we have it so good that we often dont even realize how good things actually are when compared to most of the world.

[@lolpl0000]

Man, this comment hits deep.

[@Laura-xc2xk]

I just have to say, that watching this was a trip for me. This wasn't just "another youtube video" for me, it was more. You gave voice and face to my customers. I work at work permit/working visa office here in Helsinki. I'm kinda speechless, as usually in our field we don't really see or hear the thoughts, emotions and the whole timeline, that our customers as yourself have to go through. I'm sorry that you had some bumbs along the way, but I'm quite sure, that the final "welcome home" was forth it all. Thank you for making this video. I'm super happy that KZbin suggested it for me. All the best for you.

[@LukeBland]

I have to say that I have never experience professionalism like the Finnish Immigration office! I appreciate SO MUCH that I wasn't at all treated like a "case" but like a unique person. The people working with me showed that they were trying to find every way they could to help me and not just push me through the system. I just wanted to write back that I have loads of respect for you guys and the work you do and how you do it! 🙏🏼

[@woolfulrebellion]

Can I get a Visa through bloodline ancestry? My grandmother is Finnish. I am a US citizen but I live in Chile. I want to relocate to Finland with all of my heart.

[@abidabaloch3339]

@@woolfulrebellion What is wrong in Chile????? Why you want move a non emotional nation. Cold like a hell.

[@woolfulrebellion]

@@abidabaloch3339 You actually have a good point.

[@abidabaloch3339]

@@woolfulrebellion All the best.

[@RendallRen]

I teared up a little, man. I'm an American living in Finland, too. Onpas hyvä juttu!

[@Subaru_Enjoyer]

Rendall im from Finland so hi

[@CinCinAttic]

@@anti-glassesgang7622 Mr. Warlord should calm down, very "unfinnish" of u to act like a fking asshole.

[@JimmyRingz]

@@anti-glassesgang7622 Can't be a Finn. Can't. F off troll.

[@kemppaisenera236]

Guys dont feed the troll. Im talking aboug the warlock guy

[@RendallRen]

Ei haittaa mitään, kaikki. On totta, ei suomalaisia koskaan sanoisi tätä. Olen asunut suomessa noin viisi vuotta ja puoli, ja se jatkaa olla kiva.

[@MikaIwaya]

I just watched this , and I’m crying in a park in Japan. Thank you for the beautiful clip 🤘😊🇫🇮

[@lephilosopheinconnu3952]

@@kasper5688 Why is it so?

[@j4sp3rd51]

I WANT TO GO JAPAN IM JEALOUS

[@roosarobin3383]

We need more guys like you in Finland. Sometimes Finns don't even appreciate what we have. Loved this story. I hope you will conquer all hardships that come your way.

[@LukeBland]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@sumosami]

that's kinda true. we have problems but every single country in planet earth has them

[@finnicpatriot6399]

Sheik Asor RehtnaP Knip >We >Name is Sheik Yeah, no

[@filthycasualgaming9715]

@@finnicpatriot6399 Salty?

[@finnicpatriot6399]

Piisami Rotta Just realistic.

[@franshartman4378]

Luke, what a great man you are. We Finns love honest and hard working people like you. 😊

[@HannuPulkkinen49]

Thank you for sharing! Please continue your story.

[@frankenstein7956]

I am literally giving up everything I own here in Texas. I land in Helsinki on the second of October. Thank you for the motivation!

[@LukeBland]

Wow! That's amazing! 🙌🏼

[@frankenstein7956]

Thank you I am hoping I can find a job. I have been trying to learn finnish and I am extremely excited. I have seen most of your videos and they really inspired me

[@millmoormichael6630]

How’s it going?

[@christophermilligan5337]

hey, how did this end up going, and did you find a job? id love an update. i live in new york and want to move to Finland myself but i have no real root connections to the country.

[@LukeBland]

18 years later and I’m still here 😏

[@TheDragonborne]

Man that ending. "Welcome home". I can't immagine what it felt like to hear that.

[@LukeBland]

Words can’t describe.

[@mervibaker6418]

Your video is an example of "the magic of Finland." I am so happy for you, Finland steals your heart ❤️. Every time I come back to Canada after visiting my homeland, I cry on the plane. Coming back to the pollution of Toronto and the rudeness of people is depressing. I moved my daughter to Finland for a better life, and she has found the magic of Finland and does not want to come back! I am happy to say that I now have my Finnish citizenship back again and am counting down the days to move back with one suitcase and my son and sister 🇫🇮

[@LukeBland]

That’s a very touching story. I count the days with you and hope you end up where you are happy. Until then, merry Christmas! ❤️

[@berrygirlfinn]

Man, this was BEAUTIFUL!! My story was very similar, even to the point in which you flew on your flight privileges to get here...(I was a flight attendant and did exactly the same!) I had met my love (now husband of 13 years) and after a passionate couple of weeks I went home...bailin my eyes out!! I decided right then, "Frick it!" This is my one chance at something amazing, with someone amazing, in a place that soothes my soul. Dropped everything, left my parents, my baby sis, my friends, and job. Had about $1,000 bucks to my name. Would do it all over again without question. Best decision of my life.

[@northstar2621]

I love this story 😘

[@makita3680]

How did you survive in Finland on $1000? This place is expensive as hell and it's hard to get a job without knowing Finnish... they take ages to process your papers too (a year in my not so remarkable case).

[@lp4738]

@@makita3680 She did not mention the country she had moved to.

[@historygal7]

Your story really struck me. I've been feeling a pull to this country in the strongest way. I was supposed to be in Finland last month, but things didn't work out. I am rescheduling my trip for next year. I want a change from the life I have here in the US. I want a new start in a new place surrounded by nature and a completely different way of life. When I heard the words..."Welcome Home, " my eyes watered. This is what I long to hear. I know I will connect to the country and its people and I pray I will be able to do that in the next 6 months. I hope you are living a wonderful life in Finland today!

[@LukeBland]

Thanks! I hope your story will have a happy ending as well 🙏🏼

[@historygal7]

@@LukeBland Thank you!

[@yosoyunapina]

Don't let your dreams be dreams

[@tommytomtomtomestini3894]

But the clown is so scary :(

[@Vvopat96]

Your're happy and motivated when you chase your dreams

[@63DegreesNorth]

What a great story Luke. I’m feeling really privileged to have the chance to hear it told with so much authentic emotion. Quality stuff. I bet your folks and family are very proud of you for living your life and not just following along in someone else’s. 👍🏻

[@jussi3016]

Thanks for sharing your story. It would be awesome to hear how it continues!

[@NandakumarKS]

Luke, Beautiful story. I can relate so much. I'd my own startup with my friends. We were together for 6 years and finally when we shut down in 2017 and went separate ways, I was left stranded and confused. I didn't find purpose anymore and was in a depressed state for almost 2-3 months. I'd visited Helsinki and Tallinn before and the thought of moving here was something which gave a direction to my mind at that point. I had been planning for my move to Helsinki from Oct 2017. I did all the required tests and completed the application process for Aalto university. When the decision about the application came in April 2018 I was happy and sad. I had to find ways to fund the program as I didn't get the scholarship. After lot of self searching I thought there was no point in waiting. I went to banks in India for educational loan. This took 1-2 months to process. Once the funds were sorted I applied for the residence permit, which again took 2 months to process, and the decision was negative (Migri couldn't verify the authenticity of money I'd in my bank account for living expenses). I was shattered. Didn't know what to do next. I'd quit my job, sold my motorcycle and car, even had my things packed and ready. I'd the support from my family and girlfriend. With their encouragement I applied again. This time taking extra care to show sources of all funds in my account. My second application was submitted on Sep 4, 2018 (the day I was supposed to join my program at the university). And the second application took almost 5 months to process. I was extremely nervous throughout this period and often had emotional breakdowns. Would cry at night thinking about the decision I took. Was it the right thing! I'd already paid tuition fee for the first year and had incurred a lot more expenses in preparations for the move. Finally the decision came around in the last week of January this year. Booked flight tickets for Feb 14th and suddenly the residence permit card got delayed. Was about to reschedule the flight on 12th, but when the airlines told me cost of doing that - I could buy new tickets for less than that amount. As luck worked out, the permit card arrived on 13th. Collected it the same day from the embassy and went straight to the airport to catch the early morning flight. I'm actually thankful for this rather bad experience. I know the value of support from my girlfriend and family now. I feel that I can attain anything if I really want it. I've experienced one of the lowest points of my life and I'm more stronger because of it. :) I've been subscribed to your channel from 2017. I'm happy to say that your videos were the ones I watched to see Helsinki when I was dreaming about moving here. Best wishes for your future, Nandu.

[@axel2116]

Your kind of immigrants we want and NEED in Finland. You're a great guy and I wish you best of luck!

[@0Flow0]

Cause he's white?

[@axel2116]

@@0Flow0 haha no😒 because he came here to work and actually wants to adabt to our society.

[@maryamjamali1739]

Would you accept me too? :))

[@axel2116]

@@maryamjamali1739 haha i don't know you but if you are not a crimal just come here XD

[@maryamjamali1739]

@@axel2116 nope buddy :)) just a simple computer science graduate :)) Pitty I have literally nobody there . Thanx anyway . Youre living in the place place on earth

[@AidenAkatsuki]

Your story has really resonated with me Luke. I have been watching your vlogs for over a year now and have been wondering what the story was behind how you emigrated to Finland in the first place. The first time I travelled to Helsinki, it was also to visit a friend. Over the course of my week long visit, I fell in love with the city for reasons which are indescribable, like you say. I very quickly started to feel like this is where I truly belong and every subsequent visit has just reinforced that feeling. The next chapter in my journey begins in June, in which I will be living in Helsinki for the month to study on a language course. Thank you so much for continuing to provide both motivation and inspiration to me!

[@aahpuuh]

good luck to your trip!

[@slayanysmaniax3564]

I too fell in love with FI at very first sight and every visit I feel more and more at home. It's harder to leave each time. Congratulations on your language course, I've been there/done that myself!

[@jamiecallaghan4232]

Glad you made it Luke. Lived here 18yrs with no regrets. :)

[@KenMoss]

Wow! What a lovely story. That ending was perfect. I share your deep feelings for Suomi. I lived there for a short while and was politely asked to leave after applying for an extension to the three Months I had already spent there. Beautiful country, lovely people cultural dream for me. Sadly now I think age is against me, but my dream as a builder was to build a log cabin and a puu sauna in the forest.

[@JimmyRingz]

It's never too late, though obviously age always slows us down a bit. Glad to hear you like our little haven of peace called Suomi. Hope you get to visit again, at least.

[@KenMoss]

@@JimmyRingz ha ha I don't mind the slowing down it's all part of the process. I love Suomi more than England. My intention was to buy a run down cottage in the forest and spend what time I had left giving it some TLC. Unfortunately we have Brexit hanging over our heads and know one knows the eventual outcome. I long for the smell of freshly baked ruisleipää 😊

[@JimmyRingz]

@@KenMoss Kind words. I understand you missing that smell, ruisleipä is delicious.😊 Brexit is a tough one, I hope it all works out great for England, no matter which way you'll end up going with it.

[@KenMoss]

@@JimmyRingz yes we will, Brits as a nation have sisu, We just need a strong leader to look to, someone a bit like your Mannerheim would do.

[@JimmyRingz]

@@KenMoss Yes, in the past you have proven it to the world you have a lot of sisu too.💪 Every country needs a strong and fair leader, true.

[@julieparubets8653]

That is what i call a genuine person. Not ashamed of his real feelings to share with great audience and still stay true to himself. Golden man!

[@suomilaava371]

This was a beautiful story and I am so happy you live here now :) I hope you will enjoy your life in Finland.

[@finnishcanadian3375]

Oh my! That was the most beautiful story you shared Luke. I had no idea of this! ❤

[@rainertuominen4242]

Impressive with a genuine Nordic modesty, honest to the bone and moving like the first ever snowfall experienced with respect 🇸🇪🇫🇮

[@markkusyrjala7919]

That background music is excelent! Nice story,refreshing view of Finland.

[@llssneN]

Wonderful video Luke! We're happy to have you.

[@Necroticnarcosis]

facinating story and shows bravery to take such big steps in life

[@harripalomaki8796]

Now that's what I call a story. I applaud your perseverance. I did a somewhat similar move in my late 20s when I moved from Tampere to London. It was an exciting and at times very tough time. I returned to the old country after eight years as, I believe, a more resourceful and resilient person. Whilst I think Helsinki is a great city, the wanderlust still occasionally flickers. Hope to hear more of your saga.

[@criticalmass3993]

It gets even better outside of Helsinki! Middle and northern Finland is simply stunning no matter if its summer or winter.

[@Gatekeeper63]

This was really touching. More like this of your life please.

[@ToastedCigar]

Wow, your story is incredibly inspirational! I admire your courage. I'd love to hear how things continued after you got here permanently

[@LukeBland]

Yeah I plan on telling a bit more sometime. Thanks 🙏🏼

[@Hyjeena]

Wow talk about persistence! The feeling of home is really profound and I’m glad you got to come back to where you belong!

[@Ama-Elaini]

Persistence is one of the traits associated with Finns. Or as we call it, "sisu" when we talk about persistence that overcomes all odds. He proved to be a Finn for sure in that regard.

[@timokoski594]

Oh wow! The one story we've been looking for. Amazing journey. One could really feel the emotions through the words and expressions. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@LukeBland]

🙏🏼

[@kevinarnaldomejiaportillo7373]

Great story Luke. Thanks for sharing your experience. So inspirational!!

[@felipegasnier9903]

Super! My history is a little the same, I’d been here for a art exhibition in 2015 and felt here was my place, was super strong feeling... l come back to Brazil, sold everything that i had (car, 2 companies, many stuffs) and in 2016 moved definitely with my wife and cat to helsinki. I really understand his feelings! =) congraz for this video!

[@democracyalways9801]

Tervetuloa!

[@CatCadwallader]

Finally watched this! Fantastic video, what a story! We're all so happy it worked out in the end! 🙏

[@LukeBland]

Thanks, Cat! It’s been a wild ride 😄

[@whaleacademic7750]

That "welcome home" at the end brought a tear to my eye. Like, this was so wholesome that it actually made the rest of my day, and I'm happy for you man.

[@LukeBland]

Thank you 🙏🏼 That really means a lot!

[@KatiLust]

What an amazing story, I absolutely loved to hear it! You almost made me cry too! Thank you for sharing and big hug!

[@LukeBland]

🙏🏼

[@jamesparrett]

You've told me bits of this story before, but it was really special to hear it all at once. I've got so much respect for you and your perseverance!

[@MyName-fh5ik]

I felt every bit of this video to my core. Also an American living in Finland and not sure how your video popped up in my feed but I'm glad it did. Thank you 💗🙏

[@LukeBland]

Nice to hear from a fellow American in Finland! I wonder how many of us there are here.

[@MyName-fh5ik]

@@LukeBland I bet more than we think 🤭 I heard a retired American ambassador traveled all over the world, and when he retired he decided to live in Finland. He's making a small hotel in Helsinki these days 🙂

[@ognimimerkki]

Extremely captivating! Love it. Background music also works really well.

[@LukeBland]

Thanks 🙏🏼

[@Prewsy]

Thank you so much for sharing this! ❤️ I would love to see part 2 video about your journey in here in Finland. Kiitos! / Thank you!

[@Nemendril]

Hi Luke! I've been watching your videos from time to time, about your jogging, cooking, work, music, suomi-päivä and family life. to hear this story about how it all began made me emotional. We should all be thankful about what we have, even though it's difficult sometimes. Thank you for being.

[@Timeisatraveller]

Great story, Luke! Thank you for sharing. :)

[@mikkovaan8636]

Hope you enjoy your home in Finland! As a native, I love how quiet people are and the cold. So peaceful and you can relax and purify yourself every day. Even summers when water is warm there's public swimming halls to which entry costs like 5 bucks which is pocket money for most people here, and there you have this little cold pool, almost as cold as winter lake water. Absolutely great!

[@villemononen5303]

What a very vivid genuine story that moves many! Welcome, enjoy your time here.

[@KerranKaksi]

What a heartfelt and encouraging story, thank you for sharing it!

[@ineswellenkampjales4727]

Me and my boyfriend are in the process of moving to Finland (a lot of finland related videos lately) and I'm kind of excited, kind of scared (the culture and the weather are pretty different from where we are) but seeing videos like this, makes me a little bit more confident that we are doing the right thing. Nothing like following our dreams and finding home :)

[@NorthMoon.666]

Interesting that a foreigner feels so strong bond towards Finland. It was very heartwarming to watch and to listen to your story. Welcome to Finland, i wish you all the best after the difficulties you had to go through. I'm kind of a waiting for the next video, this was the first one of a new beginning, hope i'll see another video of your life and experiences in Finland. Kiitos ja Thank you :)

[@LukeBland]

Thanks 🙏🏼There will be more to the story... I promise.

[@democracyalways9801]

Jatko osaa odotellessa...

[@CaraRibbons]

Ohhhhhhh man. Loved watching this. You have always been an amazing and talented guy - Finland is certainly your place, and those folks are your people. You have always been missed, but seeing you thrive and flourish gives me all the feels. Love to you and your fam.

[@sulosky]

I'm so glad everything went well with you. Thank you for sharing this story! I wish you all the best. Welcome home, Luke.

[@Erajormaz]

Powerful story with such a good ending with that boarder guard welcoming you home. :) Had this grumpy Finn shedding some tear here and there. I admire your courage and passion. Thanks for sharing Luke!

[@vibingwithvinyl]

These past few weeks there has been a lot of talk about who we should and/or should not allow to immigrate here. You're an excellent example of a person we should welcome with open arms. Thank you for becoming a Finn.

[@maryamjamali1739]

So what type are you trying to avoid exactly? Id really like to know more about what you said above

[@grandpriest7212]

@@maryamjamali1739 the type who come to our country thinking its the same as where they came from and who rape and assault innocent people and get away with it because of the maximun prison sentence of like 2 years and the type who use our society to live for free and do drugs or sell them

[@DJSquampy]

@@grandpriest7212 sounds like Sweden, my friend.

[@vibingwithvinyl]

@@maryamjamali1739 We're trying to avoid people who do not want to integrate into our society and who do not respect our culture and values.

[@maryamjamali1739]

@@vibingwithvinyl Im really sorry to that Fins are being hurt by others in their hometown. Fimland has always been the greatest place on earth. I hope u can deal with those issues and the ones hurting your society get deported or sth.... so sorry man

[@Phil_Reid_N.Z]

Luke that's an amazing story great to hear the background takes some guts just to get on a plane and go for it . we already know the outcome a cool ending .

[@killergumbo]

Very nice and touching story, man! I needed to travel all across the globe from the 90's to the 2010's to realize my native Finland is really a good and safe place to live, even with all it's little quirks :)

[@candytoo3729]

Luke - I am married to a finn and lived there for years. As a Canadian, it was an easy integration. the only thing true about the American DREAM is the dream! Sorry to say it. Glad you are loving it. Wonderful country with long history and proud, determined and kind people.

[@tiiarantanen3378]

I'm so glad to have you as a fellow Finn! Good to have you home buddy ✨

[@sonitasv]

I'm so happy for you!!! Congratulations for your hard work and determination, I also came to Finland for love (husband for almost 2 years). Even though it is tough sometimes, being here has been the best desicion of my life, Finland is also my home 🇫🇮🇫🇮 greetings from a Salvadoran living in Helsinki.

[@jeremyroe]

What a cool story - Thank you for sharing it! I’ve looked a bit into moving to another country and the prospect is daunting. My wife currently works for American here in Wisconsin. Sometime I’d love to hear how you moved into the career you are in now?

[@brandonrepo4]

I like the way you apreciate my hometown and my country.

[@ignatnikitin6666]

Oh man, you a so good storyteller. It touches heart

[@leighannerauhala8040]

Awesome to hear the whole story. Thanks for sharing.

[@0Quiwi0]

Welcome home indeed. Glad to have you here

[@ashgmove9844]

Hei Luke, thanks for sharing this emotional but inspiring story about your journey moving to Finland to start a new life. I too have started that journey and moved to Finland. Even though you don't know who am I'd like to thank you as you have motivated me. I watched your vlogs here on KZbin of life in Finland and enjoyed posts on your Instagram account. It's helped me make the decision that will change my family's life forever. Hearing your story was moving and will push me to create the life I've always wanted. My journey has just begun and seeing how far you've come is what will drive me. Thank you Luke

[@Waldo14]

All the success to you!

[@ashgmove9844]

@@Waldo14 thank you 👍

[@Symptone]

Thanks Luke for sharing this, I really enjoyed your story. All the best from Joel with yellow jacket.

[@mrgadget1485]

Very touching story, thanks for sharing it! And btw, welcome home man!

[@herecomesthesun21]

Such a beautiful story, thank you. I felt it in my heart, very touching. You did whatever it took to get to where your heart wanted to go.

[@annak2745]

Thank you for sharing your emotions. I hope you have good life here in Finland. I moved with my family to Finland and had never thought before I would have fallen in love with this country so much as to decide to stay here permanently. I'm a Polish dreamer in Finland :-)

[@carriestrickler9113]

Wow great story! Thanks for sharing that.

[@emmajeanhill]

i am currently awaiting my working permit decision. i am likely to be denied due to the conditions of approval changing during the process of my application. my employer is being so kind and waiting for me, but it feels like Migri is working against me here. the final call with the embassy made me cry. the words the border guard gave you at the end have me sobbing. i am so happy for you, and i understand you down to the core of my being. tell finland i love her, and one day ill come home.

[@LukeBland]

Never give up on your dream! Hoping the best for you 🙏🏼

[@korvapuustit]

Canadian in Finland checking in! Totally agree with you, this place is my dream come true. 💙

[@nomad927]

Nice story man. I'd like to hear from you what it is about Finland that you love enough to just move here like that. I moved to Finland a few years ago because at the time I was married to a Finn and we had our daughter on the way. I gave up a great paying career in southern California to move to Finland because for one, my then wife and I both agreed we wanted our daughter to be raised here for so many reasons but mainly because my now ex has a huge loving family here and I come from a broke ass family life with hardly any relatives left alive and so my daughter would not have had this big family life that I had missed out on. Secondly, we wanted our daughter to enjoy the benefits of Finnish citizenship, especially education. It was a no brainier for me to be the one to completely change my life so my daughter could possibly have everything I did not have growing up and much more. Fast forward 3 years now and even though my divorce was kind of nasty, my ex and I now get along so our daughter sees us acting kind towards one another. Yes I grew up in sometimes unpleasant surroundings SO naturally, I want my daughter to see her parents acting kind to each other and sharing the responsibility of raising our child equally. I am also pleased to say that my ex wife's family still treat me very kind and welcoming as if I am family. Just today my daughter and I went to Grandma and Grandpa's for Easter dinner. While Mom is on tour with her band in Estonia. I'm not gonna kid anyone and say it's been easy for me trying to get by here in Finland cause it's been perhaps the most difficult time in my entire misfit life. I have had some amazing work opportunities in Lapland tourism and I actually have my own flat in Rovaniemi which is where I have dug my own roots into this beautiful forest country. I still have not had luck finding solid work from April until September each year as Lapland tourism season comes almost to a standstill in April through summer. I have been relentlessly searching for summer work but still nothing has panned out. Next and final step will be for me to finally start my own tourism business in Lapland. Between my divorce and lack of summer work, I have been struggling quite a bit emotionally but I'm still right here. I am here because I couldn't bear living thousands of miles away from my daughter, she is my entire universe, my pillar of hope in an uncertain world. Also now after three years of living here and starting from nothing as you had, I have established myself in Rovaniemi where I have friends and solid business connections. I also just recently got sworn into a metal band out of Oulu as their new singer. I have a lot going on for me now here in SUOMI. Lapland is home for me. Finland is my home country now. I never felt at home all my life living in San Diego California but I now have a home and a big family if sorts, right here in SUOMI. I also have this pride for Finland because my precious half Finnish daughter was born right here in Helsinki. I am proud that she is half Finnish. I can't even express what that means exactly but I proudly tell my fellow Americans that my daughter is half Finnish. I'm sorry I took up so much of your comment section with my own short story here but your story compelled me to chime in about wanting to stay living in Finland. Of course our reasons are most certainly different but I can now relate to your desire to be here. It's all about SISU to stay living in this often dark and cold Nordic country isn't it ? But after a few years, it's very worth all the darkness and cold. If you are ever up around Rovaniemi, look me up, and we'll go grill some makkara and put back a few Karhus next to a järvi I really like up there. You can message me here or also find me on Instagram if you use that. greg_evol

[@KissShotAcerolaOrion]

I also live in Rovaniemi! :D (i'm finnish)

[@dragonfairy22]

Thank you for sharing. Warm regards from Oulu :)

[@Kardinaalilintu]

Grilling makkara and kicking back with Karhu next to a järvi is about as finn of a proposal as it gets. About work: During spring and summer it's high season in Oulu, so restaurants, hotels and event planners are hiring like crazy. If you are interested at all in such work, look into it. If you have experience, education or other qualifications for restaurant or hotel business, look up EnjOy. I think Varamiespalvelu just bought them, but they still specialize in hotel and restaurant workforce connections and ...rental? I can say that in english too, right? Ovat siis hotelli- ja elintarvikealaan erikoistunut vuokratyö firma.

[@valtterilyytinen13]

I allmost cryed when i read that Last centence grill some makkara and drink karhus one of the most beautiful things

[@moonchant]

You seem like good man and great dad. I hope you will have solid and loving future. Best of luck!

[@-Anjel]

This feels like a coming out video.... "I've always felt this way and i can't go on any longer pretending. I am a finn and proud!" Tervetuloa, toivottavasti on vastannut kaikkia odotuksia ja olet löytänyt paikan, jonne tunnet kuuluvasi.

[@LukeBland]

Can you “come out” as Finnish? 😄

[@bls512]

Thanks Luke for sharing your lovely story... it resonates and I've never been to Finland but very drawn. You're an inspiration.

[@LukeBland]

Thank you 🙏🏼

[@MrZiizeli]

Such a wonderful story! We are happy to have you here! :)

[@MrsMilli]

I'm captivated, speechless, impressed, moved and simply just so happy for You. ... Welcome home...

[@LukeBland]

Thank you ❤️

[@mhim4640]

Thank you, Luke!

[@JaneenStokes10]

Your story is so inspiring uplifting and truly beautiful. I'm also moving to Finland and you give me the utmost hope 😊😔🤚 thank you so much.

[@LukeBland]

Wonderful! Welcome home 😌

[@livemoreraw2875]

Your story is so powerful! Thank you for sharing

[@LukeBland]

Thank you so much!

[@shannonw8078]

Man, if anyone was supposed to live in Finland it was you. When you told me you moved to Finland I was like, yeah, that makes so much sense. Of course you do. I didn’t realized it took all that to get there but I’m glad you made it.

[@LukeBland]

It was definitely a wild ride! But I can't imagine doing anything else with my life. Best decision I ever made.

[@Aveange29]

Wow I'm speechless. Luckily everything turned out well!

[@JakeZilla86]

Thank you so much for sharing this story. I really do enjoy the nice and clear style of your speech that makes it easy to listen to even for a Finn! :)

[@katherinemaas6712]

Such a moving story! Thank you!

[@KeithDonegan]

Amazing story, well done mate

[@NCCaniac42]

I just discovered this.. and Luke - I totally agree with you.. I was in Finland two summers ago and I didn't want to leave. I have Finnish ancestors, my family is from the UP of Michigan.. and I fell in love with the country...

[@annae8339]

Thank you for posting this! I moved to another country too, and have seen a million videos where people tell their immigration stories, but this is the only one I've ever related to.

[@LukeBland]

Nice! This is really the first tim I’ve ever told this story publicly. I happy if it has reached someone.

[@Hamartias_hound]

Thank you for sharing this. I'm currently working towards getting to Finland myself and hearing your story honestly helps me feel like it's possible.

[@LukeBland]

It always possible! I wish you all the best!

[@criswillcri]

Its honestly so crazy to hear that someone fell in love with your country that hardly is on the world map (let alone like many years back) and literally cried because they thought they'd loose the dream of living in Finland. I like Finland and i think Finland is a great place and all, but it like is mindboggling to hear someone else be so pumped to move here and take a risk to move here, damn.

[@suparauta8026]

This was so beatiful story. 😭💓

[@Orange-nr5rd]

Thanks for sharing your story. It was so touching. I just couldn't help crying. Finland is now also my second home country. Wish you a good life in Finland.

[@LukeBland]

Thank you! Where is your first home country?

[@Flupepe]

What a powerful story, it gave me goosebumps. I wonder what initially made you feels so passionately about Finland. I am probably going to watch all your videos to find out 😁👍. Good to see that you are still here and hopefully enjoying your life here ( peeked your channel).

[@LukeBland]

Awesome! Finland is such a special place! 👌🏼

[@christian53050]

Touching...thank you...

[@jonast9726]

I'm danish and recently moved to Helsinki in order to live with my finnish girlfriend. The process of moving here in terms of distance and bureacracy has been way easier for me, so I can only imagine your stress. But you made it, sports! Well done! As much as I love living here, I'm still stressed about the obstacles one faces when moving to a foreign country, but this video made me feel better! Kiitos!

[@heartbeat95]

Beautiful story. Its fascinating to hear that someone has such a strong feeling to belong somewhere. Youre in the right place.

[@liisagawley2053]

What a touching story. Welcome to Finland and good luck. I hope you have a chance to travel around the country and get to know places outside Helsinki.