One fine day, you will leave your home, city, and country to pursue grander ambitions. You will leave your family, relatives, friends, and lovers for possibilities of exploring a new world and make deeper connections. You will defy your fear of change, hold your head high and do what you once thought was unthinkable: walk away. And it will be scary. At first. But what I realized is, you don’t just find a good occupation, adventure or freedom. More than anything, you find you and your purpose in life.
Setting to go abroad and leave my family was one of the most difficult decisions I have made. But I know that it is best for us. A decision I have thought, cried, and prayed hard about. A decision I’m at peace with, yet it is still incredibly tough. A decision that makes us suffer, but will bring us comfort in the long run.
Being at peace with my decision didn’t keep me from doubting it. It didn’t save me from being guilty. During emotional moments, I question if I have made the right choice. Until I check the only picture in my wallet and I know what I have.
I work at an English center as a teacher so everything, almost, reminds me of what I’m missing. Kids who look like my nephews and nieces, watching the parents send and fetch their children, and the presence of my managers are like parents who guide their kids. These chances shatter my heart a little each time.
Distance made me love closer and understand deeper. It made me appreciate my parents, my sisters, relatives and friends more. Someday we’ll be together physically. But for now, we’ll bond digitally, emotionally, and spiritually; until being together is our best choice.
As of the moment, I am feeling blessed to achieve one of my goals in life. Living in a country with a unique culture and tradition also allows me to be enlightened about “cultural understanding” and “diversity.” A year has passed and I am thankful to Vietnam for the wonderful opportunity and experience. I am ready to face more challenges and victories in life.
So for those who are planning to work overseas, you have to prove that you are always the best at what you do. Your success will make someone proud and inspired. Keep fighting! — Marcius Niccolo A. Dulay
April 25, 2024
