The life of an overseas worker is not easy. Like other Filipino working overseas, I have my own story to share. It was not easy to leave my son behind to work abroad. Since I am a single mom, the difficulty is doubled compared to others. I encountered many problems, but the biggest hurdle was being away from my loved ones. My son was only under two years of age when I decided to leave him and work abroad for financial reasons. I still remember the first time I boarded an international plane. I could not hold tears that rolled down my cheeks. Even now, my heart breaks that I cannot be with my son for so long.
Since it was my first time working abroad, I had to make many adjustments while working for my employer. In the first year of my work, there were no days that I did not cry. I remember there were even instances that I needed to hide or pretend to go to the restroom to calm myself. I missed my son and my family so much. Nevertheless, I needed to show the employer that I was ok even when I was not. I was really afraid that it would affect my work and could be their reason to terminate my contract.
I could not just go home as I wanted because I had loans and debts to pay in the Philippines, which I borrowed as my placement fee. I have my son and my family to support too. So, regardless of how I felt, I ignored it and said I needed to be strong for my family.
Homesickness is the biggest challenge that every one away from home is encountering. I feel really sad to miss my son’s special events and not be there to see his life milestones while he is growing up. I felt terrible when I was not able to go home. Moreover, I could not go home when my grandparents died. They had a significant role in my life because they took care of me, even my siblings, when my parents were not around for work.
Then when my father was diagnosed with lung cancer, hospitalised and fighting for his life, I felt lost and did not know what to do. I also felt helpless, for I was worried about my mom too.
The saddest part was I was not around when they passed away on Christmas eve. I prayed for the eternal peace of their souls and offered prayer and Mass. I prayed that they would be in good hands and no more pain to suffer.
I could not overcome my sorrow. I thought it was not the same if I had been beside them to take care of them and let them know how grateful I was—thanking them for all the good aspects they have done for me.
Indeed, money is insignificant, and nothing can bring back lost times and missed occasions in our lives. I missed the joy of seeing my sons grow up, of being with my loved ones. However, I see this as a challenge or trial for me to be a braver and stronger woman for my loved ones’ better future.
Time passed by; it had been so long, eight years of working overseas, and I find it quite unbelievable. I never thought that I would sign one contract after another for the same employer. Isn’t it amazing? I am still fortunate, right? God is good all the time.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
If you offer him all your worries, everything will fall in place. My family, friends, and most especially my son gave me strength and reason to live. An inspiration for me to take the path boldly.
Above all, I’m grateful to our Almighty God. Without him, I am nothing. I am offering everything I am going through to him and praying for his guidance for my family and me. Because I know that the weapon I could battle in every trial I face or may experience is, prayer. Every day is a new start to making ourselves better.
As a single mom, I want to share with you my favourite verse, which gives me strength as I recite this when I wake up: “I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me” Philippians 4:13.
Crestee Therese Layawon
