The true sacrifices of an OFW

I left the Philippines, my homeland, to a foreign country. I did not know what fate would await me.

The word “abroad” sounds nice but actually it means true sacrifices—fatigue, sleeplessness, patience and homesickness. When we leave our country, one foot of ours is like buried in a grave. We may come home with victory, or lying inside our coffin in case anything unfortuante happen to us.

I started my life as an OFW (overseas Filipino worker) with a job in Saudi Arabia and now I am working in Kuwait. I grabbed the opportunity when there was an interview though I did not know what awaits me.

I can bear anything but homesickness. Yet I control my feelings for the sake of my family and my dreams for them.

Although I feel fatigued, I am still able to wear a smile before my employer to serve as a mask covering up the loneliness we feel.

Are the OFWs selfish? Yes, we are selfish because we pick the money here and leave our family to the care of others. But our money is earned with blood and perspiration. To those who call us selfish, can they tell us who can provide for the financial needs of our family? 

OFWs are liars? Yes we are liars because when we say we are okay, we are tired and not okay.

OFWs are numb? Yes we are numbed because even though we are tired we keep going on. At times we feel self-pity but we fight them off even there are times we are unable to take a rest.

OFWs are brave and strong people so do not underestimate us. We have to be strong because of our jobs and situations.

To my fellow OFWs everywhere in the world, I salute you! At present here in Kuwait I am proud to be a Khadama (Nanny) and I will continue my venture in life.        

Rhea Llanita
Kuwait