Missing the Warmth of UAE

It was just like yesterday when I was new in United Arab Emirates.  Looking back 7 years ago, I had the same feeling of not-knowing-what’s-going-to-happen in my new life in a new environment, with new people with whole new different culture. Yes, it was just like “a whole new world” to me as if I’m on a magic carpet ride except that it was not a shining, shimmering, splendid environment for me.

From the islands of the Philippines, I was stuck in the mysterious deserts of UAE. It was scary at first; not knowing what will happen with you is really scary. But as time goes by, I was able to adapt with the place, the people, the culture and the weather. I started to love the people and friends I met along the way, learned to eat whatever food is generously offered to me, I was also able to get used with the work.

I had my own share of difficulties and trials but I was able to go through with it, thanks to the help and support of my mom, my family, my brothers and sister, my bf and my friends. UAE had been my second home and had given me lots of memories to treasure and hold on to.

It is where I was able to spend more time with my Mom. To my mom, who’s always there to support my every decision, for your unconditional love and for giving me so much freedom that had allowed me to discover myself and what I am capable of doing. Thank you so much. I miss you and I love you.

I lost my dad. It is in UAE, where my dad struggled for his last breath. To you dad, know that I will always love you. I just hope I could still share the joy of having all these blessings in my life. I miss you.

I met my most favorite friend. It is in here where I met my most beloved friend. To you Mine, thanks for giving me the courage to face anything. For your optimistic view in life, I was able get through with all my negative thoughts and make decisions without holding back.  Please don’t give up on us. God will find a way for us to be together again.

I came to know how blessed I am. Thankful that I was given the chance to serve you Lord. I once believe that it’s up to me to choose whatever I like and whatever it is that will make my life better. But we don’t get to choose what’s best for us. God has own way of giving us what’s best in such a perfect way and timing. You just have to PUSH, Pray Until Something Happens!

I met wonderful and amazing friends to treasure forever. To all my Khorfakkan friends and family, you all hold a place in my heart and I want to thank you all for everything, for the friendship, for being with me through wonderful and tearful times. Thank you. Thank you and babait ninyo.

Another thing to be thankful for is my experience as a nurse here in UAE. As you may know, it was my first hospital experience and I am really grateful for the opportunity that had been given to me. Through the years of caring for patients in different walks of life, I learned to understand what Madeleine Leininger's Transcultural Nursing Theory is all about. Love and Caring is universal, regardless of culture and tradition. To all my colleagues in Khorfakkan Hospital, Thank you!

To UAE, thanks for the wonderful opportunity! Hoping to visit you soon!

Happy NEW YEAR and happy NEW LIFE to all!