The problem with your statement is the time period that you came to Canada in.  At that time, 50 years ago, the population was far more equal, wealth had not yet accumulated at the top end of society and everything was much cheaper.  Success in life was far more obtainable through hard work alone because everyone was on a level playing field.  This is no longer the case today.  Education, healthcare and housing costs have all skyrocketed.  All the while the rate of job creation and salary inflation have dropped.  So, while you are correct that people do have a responsibility to work hard and make the correct choices, do not think for a moment that you are 100% a self made person; you are also very much the product of the relatively golden circumstances that you were born into.  

The left wing refuses to acknowledge any responsibility for themselves whatsoever.  However, the right wing believes we are 100% responsible for everything in our lives.  Both are incorrect, extreme positions.