Home is Where the Heart is
I can still vividly remember Fr. Dan McNamara’s reaction when I told him I have decided to accept the offer to stay in Africa…first words out of his mouth was “why would you want to do that?!” I had my reasons to tell him : that I think this is a great opportunity for me to learn more about my work, the world and myself; that I feel this is a gift which simply landed on my feet oh so effortlessly; that I feel strongly about experiencing life in Africa while I still can; and that this is something I want to cross off my list of 100 Things to do Before I Die.
Those reasons still remain valid until today but Fr. Dan’s question still rings in my mind every now and then. Especially now that I am IN Africa already – sitting in my living room oblivious of the black guy watching music video across me and working on my laptop with the feel of the scorching summer heat of Soroti, Uganda outside.
“Why would you want to do that?”
The question becomes more significant when the bouts of homesickness and loneliness kick in. When I feel the need to retreat to the comforts of city life in Manila after seeing the way of life for people here in Africa. When love ones call up to share some difficulties and all you want is to rush back home and give them some great big hug.
It might not feel like it right now, but this is the place I will be calling home for the next 10 months. At least I hope I last that long J
I made my tearful goodbye to my fiancée, family and friends last April in Manila because I was offered a project being supported by the Norway government. I have officially become an “Overseas Filipino Worker” with the Fredskorpset (Fk) under a project “Peace Communicators Communicating for Peace” and my host organization is Conflict Resolution by Youth (CRY) in Uganda, Africa.
May 30th, 2007 at 1:10 am
Hey Chee,
Hold on, usually the first few weeks is the toughest, but you’ll get through it and survive and go home with so much wonderful experience , stories to tell to your children, and a deep sense of peace which can make you a stronger and braver woman as you share your life with Marco.. Goodluck girl and see you soon!
August 9th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
Wow, I also have that on my list of 100 things, hehe.
October 1st, 2007 at 5:24 am
I know this comment is a little too late now (hey, I read your post just now). But just the same, let me tell you how proud (and envious) I am of you. And I feel privileged to have known you.
Bernie
February 12th, 2008 at 6:34 am
hi! =) Fr.Dan just celebrated his silver jubilee as a Jesuit last year! Our group (third sunday rec group) is planning to make a scrapbook for him. I was wondering if I could get this article and add it in along with your picture with Fr.Dan. Can I? It would be a good addition to the scrapbook. Thanks! =)
by the way, he got an angioplasty yesterday. Let’s pray for his speedy recovery.