Life Lessons, Adulting and Them Kids Half a World Away

​As I sit here this morning, sipping on my coffee that’s grown almost cold, my mind wanders through the many years I’ve spent here in Saudi Arabia. It's hard to believe it’s been more than two decades—a journey filled with ups and downs, much like a rollercoaster. And now, as my children stand on the threshold of college life, ready to leave the nest once more, I find myself reflecting on our time together and the changes looming ahead.

The term 'adulting' often brings a smile to my face—it’s a funny little word that sums up the daunting, yet inevitable, process of growing up. Living through these formative years in a land so far from where I started in the Philippines has been nothing short of an adventure.

When I first set foot in Saudi Arabia, I was brimming with youth and enthusiasm, naive to the challenges that awaited me. The learning curve was steep. I had to juggle the demands of work and family life, all while navigating the cultural intricacies of a place so different from my homeland.

The workplace was particularly challenging, with its competitive atmosphere, work politics, and the office dramas that unfolded daily. Yet, it was here that I learned to merge my Filipino heritage with the local customs, creating a space where I could belong and excel.

​Above all, watching my children grow up has been the most rewarding part of my journey. From their first nervous day of school to their confident strides towards college, every moment has been precious.

When they left Saudi Arabia, it felt like losing a piece of my heart, yet I find solace in knowing that they take a part of our shared life and values with them.

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​To all the Filipino mothers out there, charting their paths through the complexities of adulthood, whether in Saudi Arabia or elsewhere, remember this: You are stronger than you think, braver than you believe, and more resilient than you ever imagined. Whatever challenges come your way, you are equipped to face them with courage and grace.