The Beginning of the Journey

It was my first time to go outside of the country. I had travelled many times in the past for work locally. This time, it was different. I was leaving on a Friday (October 11) and I still had a busy week. I wondered how I could make time for all the things still left to do.

I had not seen my father in a long while. So I took the time to go to his house around 50 Km from where I live. He had no idea I was going overseas for two years in a few days. I had never been to his house for personal reasons. So it must have taken him by surprise when I sent a text message asking if he was home. I took the public transport and he picked me up at the bus station. My stepmother gave me a black leather boots that she had used only once or twice. She said her granddaughter does not want it anyhow. I thought it would be very useful in my project site inspections. My father said he will see me off to the airport.

Then Wednesday was our pre-departure briefing. I still managed to go to the malls for my last minute shopping. On Thursday, I went to the dentist to make sure everything was fixed and had a panoramic x-ray taken. I then proceeded to our medical officer for the last immunization shots (for each arm). She was hoping I will be fine for the next day’s flight. Not very few people develop fever after immunization. She asked if I am right handed. She then put the bigger dose to my left arm and the other to my right. In case my arms become swollen, I can still manage to carry my luggage with my right hand.

My last stop was to pick up my motorcycle helmet. I had to make sure it fits right. I wanted to buy knee and elbow pads as well but the price was just too much for me. Then, I bought some bubble wrap and a ream of bond paper

It was a rainy Friday, and I haven’t finished packing my things yet. I have always been a very organized person and I usually do things well ahead of time. That is somehow to compensate for my being slow or rather thorough and relaxed in everything I do.

My father came early. Just before lunch time. My flight was at 5:55 PM. So I should be in the airport the latest by 3 PM. I was also expecting my older sister. My youngest brother bought lunch for us.

When my older sister came, I was still not ready. As always, she has been the high-strung type personality. She seemed to be the one worried that we might be caught in heavy traffic. I thought thirty minutes would just be fine to get to the airport.

My father offered his car. I really didn’t expect him to come so my brother was supposed to take me to the airport. It has been a long time since we got together, my sister, my brother, father and I.

It’s time to leave behind the house where I was born. I thought I will be forever in charge of keeping this ancestral house where lots of good memories were made. The moments I shared with my grandparents, parents, brothers, and sisters, made me who I am today. It’s time to pass on the task to my younger brother.

Ironically, in life one does not get the chance to do everything he wants. No matter how much you plan ahead, there will always be things coming up requiring your time and attention. It’s how things will be when we leave this world. One just has to let go and set his eyes on what is before him. There will never be enough time or you’ll miss your flight. I am beginning my journey and I have to keep pace with time.

Out to Africa

It has been more than three months since I last updated this blog. The whole month of September I took motorcycle riding lessons in preparation for this assignment in Africa. Getting on a motorbike was a totally new experience for me. It was not easy but it tested my perseverance and endurance. Every time I felt like giving up, like my colleague, I tell myself I can do it and I will do it.

The lessons drained me physically. Not to mention the vaccination shots that I still need to complete. I have fallen off countless times but every time, I took it as an occasion to rise up and dust off myself. I looked forward to completing the course sooner. Just to get it over with and do whatever that still needs to be done, the send-off parties, saying goodbyes and get-togethers for old time’s sake.

Four days before my scheduled departure, I finally reached the end of the course. I had gotten used to the daily motorcycle riding lessons that it seemed I had to get myself back to the original goal. I felt sad as I receive my certification of completion. I thought about the people who have patiently taught me. It was just not riding a motorbike that I learned but somehow in our numerous sessions, these people have shared a part of themselves as well.

I left the driving school with a heavy heart. Finally, saying goodbye to the staff that I have made friends with. I know it’s time to continue my journey. Actually, it was just beginning. There was more I should look forward to as I go to Africa.