Up to the day my daughter and I were at the airport on our way to Manila, I was silently crying and wishing the impossible which is for me to come back before June 2009. I know now that it is in fact impossible to come back even in November.
As I write today, there’s so much I want to share, now looking from outside but very much still part of the inside. For example, I want my fellow CNMI guest workers to realize that there could be a better life outside of Saipan or Tinian or Rota.
I can testify to that. A friend told me once before, if you are already thinking of doing something that could benefit you and your family, just close your eyes and jump. I’m glad I did for otherwise, I’m stucked fighting a cause with only an ego left and nothing else. Life here in Laos is totally different. Lifestyle is very simple. There’s no Tony Roma’s or Taco Bell or even a decent gym. I no longer fight for improved immigration status but who knows if the CNMI guest workers will be given anyway. In return because the guest workers here get free housing, free meals, free transportation, etc, we can save. Eyes are very limiting. We should not limit ourselves to what eyes can see. God sees more and it’s always better to trust Him who sees the infinity.
I once dreamed of living in America along with my children. Now I dream that with the money I could save from working here, I can build a small house, small business and retire in my own country in peace. Isn’t it what we all aspire and hope for? Let’s not be afraid to follow where they moved the cheese for almost always, there’s a chance that it is better than where it is at the present.
I am with you in prayers that what we are all hoping for is still possible. God bless the guest workers of CNMI! God bless Tina Sablan, Kilili Sablan and Wendy Doromal for their consistent courage to advocate for the guest workers.
IRENE N. TANTIADO
Savannakhet, Laos
