Filling the gap

Coping up for an absence and filling the gap is the hardest thing to do especially in a family set up. The roles we have in our hands as a member of the family gives us enough responsibilities to perform in order for the relations to function well. But sometimes things happen and we have to make do with the sacrifices and big changes set about, by one of the family member going abroad to earn a decent living — sacrifices.

Cristina Sarah E. Osorio husband is in Dubai right now. He went first to Saudi Arabia on 1998 and then proceeded to Dubai on 2001. The decision to work abroad is mutual. "We decided that the kids are growing up fast and while they are still not yet studying, might as well we take advantage and save for our future. He saw a newspaper ads as a sales assistant in a certain boutique in Saudi and took his chance."

The the idea that her husband is very far away was quite difficult for Cristina. "This is especially in times of crisis and when the kids very much need him. But we are coping up now and getting used to it after all these years. To make up for the lost time, he calls us always especially on special occasions like birthdays and Christmas."

However, Cristina believes that in terms of compensation, a separated family is worth it. "The kids are now studying in a good school. We go to other tourist spots here in the Philippines for a vacation, especially whenever my husband comes home."

In order for the children to understand their family situation. "I always tell the kids that it is for their own good that their father is working in another country. So that they can study in good schools and their father will be able to provide for all their needs. It is just natural that they ask questions and I just answer them with as much information as I can.

If things were to be done all over again, Cristina will likely not want the same situation she is in now. "I think it would be better if the whole family is intact here in one country, whatever it takes. It is hard to bring up the kids being a single parent."

"I know that God will be able to provide, and we will make do of whatever resources that we have here in the Philippines, but the good thing is we are all living together under one roof."

Her husband's contract will be finished in two years from now and Cristina will have to review their choices once again. "Maybe depending on the contract and the savings that we will incur. I think it will be enough time by then to decide if he will forego his contract or not."

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