Three months ago today, I and my family decided to pack up our things to move to Canada, for good.
When we left, a number of my friends and relatives were flabbergasted. And for good reasons. Back in the Philippines, I was a woman who lived a comfortable and easy life. I had a good-paying and rewarding career that showcased the best in me both as an employee and leader. I had a bank acount that, by ordinary standards, is more than enough to send my children to good schools, build my dream house and sustain a comfortable life.
I wasn't rich, but I had almost everything a woman of my age could ask and wish for. Why trade them for a life of uncertainty and hardship? Why rock the boat?
Somehow, amidst the stable and secure life I was living then, there was a sense of longing in my heart that cannot be captured by words. No, it is not midlife crisis. I didn't have the negative emotions usually associated with those going through this stage. I think that for the rest of my life, I will continue to hold on to and live by the values and principles that have given my life meaning and direction. I think that I am and will continue to be on the right path.
I think it is more of identity affirmation as opposed to midlife crisis. It's the kind that has made me take stock of and appreciate what I have only to realize that I was ready for the next level of personal growth. It's the kind that has made me felt full and yet seeking for more, for something higher, something deeper. I'm not talking about material things here. I'm talking about things that are unseen by the eyes, but felt by the heart and spirit.
Such was the seed planted in my heart. And God has led me to this place by opening this door of opportunity for me and my family. There must be something out here for me. There's a spirit in me that says I will be able to survive the tough times and adversities here and become the best person I could ever be.
I am now on my third month in this new country and for sure, we're not yet fully settled nor adjusted. I have not yet found the right job for me. I am currently employed as department manager of a big retail store but I don't feel a sense of belonging in the job. I'm still figuring out a lot of things in this new culture. I get confused every now and then but somehow, I manage to find my way. I get frustrated even for just simple things. I miss the old familiar places back in the Philippines and terribly long for the presence of my dearest friends.
Adjusting to life in Canada is an unfolding and slow process for me. And I think that is ought to be.
My personal journey is just beginning.
9 years ago
3 comments:
I've been there once...I mean with the feeling of missing almost everything in the Philippines because it felt like adapting another country's way of life is a very difficult process. You're still lucky to be in a place where people speak English. :-) Be patient, my friend. Three months is not five years....so take it slowly and you'll soon soar with all your potential spreading out like they should be. Goodluck!
thanks, my friend for your encouragement and reassurance. i need lots of those in these times.
dear mel ... you should be proud and enlivened (even as you're scared out of your mind sometimes) by your journey. it's a big, bold thing you've done, daring to live a life far from what you thought it might be. don't rush it. your wings are still sticky and wet and will need a little while to unfold. trust me. i know.
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