Dear Readers of TRS,
Often times I read articles here. I read a lot of topics here, from complaints to politics to anything nice to harrowing stories, revealing what is Singapore on the other side. Perhaps if you asked me of what I think of Singapore I would say that it is the opposite of what we have in my country. It’s astonishing to come here and see that everything works. It has one of the best educations in the world, best health care, public transportation, low taxes, efficient government and many other fascinating things about Singapore.
It’s hard to find a job in my country, and if I found one, it is not enough to support my family. For decades I’ve been working hard but it seems I cannot escape poverty. Then one day Singapore opened its door for me, I found hope that now I can finally change my life.
Some of my friends also work here, some of them are maids, some are construction workers, some works in the office and others as labourers. I guess it doesn’t matter what kind of job I am in. I’m just glad that somebody needed our services.
At times, during our day off, we go to China Town, Little India, Orchard Road, Joo Chiat and in parks. I really like these days because I can share my stories with my friends and I am able to hear theirs too. We talked about our families back in our country and how we wish we could see them. Most of us only go back to our country once a year, others only when their contract expires. But I think its okay not to go home so we can save money that will support our family.
Two years have passed already and my life has never been the same since I started working. Singapore has helped me a lot and I couldn’t ask for more.
But my stay in Singapore is not all heaven. There are ups and downs and somehow I manage it because I know that all these sacrifices will give my family a better life.
The hardest hurdle to handle is knowing that some people hated me. They hated me because they say I steal their job, make noises everywhere, and other stuffs. Truly, I cannot please everybody.
I am able to work here because you offered a job and I am very thankful. Thank you for opening your doors and accepting me for who I am and from which country I came from. If from time to time, I have offended or angered some of you, I apologized; after all, I am only human.
When the time comes that you no longer need my services, I would go back to my own country with no hatred towards you. After all, you gave me all the things that I need in exchange of my services. If you no longer want me, please break it to me gently, at least leave me with my pride. Try to spare my feelings because I am also a human like you.
A foreigner working hard for my family
TRS Contributor