Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a big sacrifice. You’re working far away to give your family a better life. But being apart can be tough on your family. This article is all about how to keep your family strong and close, even when you’re miles away, by focusing on the values and traditions that make your family unique.
Understanding the Unique Challenges Faced by OFW Families
Being an OFW isn’t just about sending money home. It’s about dealing with separation. Think about it: you miss birthdays, graduations, and just everyday moments. Your kids might feel sad or even angry that you’re not there. Your spouse might feel overwhelmed with having to handle everything at home. It’s really important to understand these challenges so you can find ways to help. For example, according to a study, children of OFWs may experience emotional and behavioral problems due to parental absence. Acknowledging this is the first step in finding solutions.
Building a Strong Foundation: Core Family Values
Family values are like the glue that holds your family together. They are the beliefs and principles that guide how you live and treat each other. Let’s talk about some important values that can help OFW families stay strong.
Bayanihan: Putting Others First
Bayanihan is a Filipino tradition of helping each other out. In the context of an OFW family, it means everyone pitches in. Kids can help with chores, and family members can support each other emotionally. It’s about understanding that you’re all in this together. Imagine this: your child is struggling in school. Instead of just leaving it to your spouse, you can video call and help them with their homework, using online resources, or encouraging them to seek help from their teachers. This shows you prioritize their education, even from afar.
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Challenges
Life throws curveballs, especially for OFW families. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from tough times. It’s about teaching your kids to be strong and not give up easily. When they face problems, encourage them to talk about it and find solutions. Example: Your child didn’t make the basketball team. Instead of letting them get discouraged, talk about it, help them identify areas to improve, and encourage them to try again next year. This teaches them to embrace challenges and never give up on their dreams.
Faith and Spirituality: Finding Strength Together
For many Filipino families, faith is a big part of life. Praying together, even if you’re miles apart, can be a powerful way to stay connected and find strength. You can have a weekly family prayer time via video call, or encourage your family to participate in church activities. It gives them something to hold onto when things get tough. Sharing the same faith can be important for families.
Respect: Honoring Each Other’s Feelings
Respect is crucial, especially when distance is involved. It means listening to each other, valuing each other’s opinions, and being considerate of each other’s feelings. Even if you disagree, always be respectful. For example, your teenager might want to pursue a career different from what you expect. Instead of dismissing their dreams, listen to their reasons, understand their passion, and offer guidance. Maintaining respect for each other is also critical during discussions about money. A transparent discussion about the sacrifices being made helps the other family member appreciate the financial contributions.
Honesty and Trust: The Foundation of a Strong Relationship
Honesty and trust are really, really important. Be open and honest with your family about your challenges and your successes. Let them know you trust them, and they will trust you in return. Keep your word and do what you say you will do. For example, If you promised to call every Sunday, make it a point to do so. It shows you value your commitment and that you think of them.
Preserving Cultural Traditions: Connecting to Your Roots
Keeping your Filipino traditions alive helps your kids feel connected to their heritage, even if they’re growing up without you physically present. Traditions are like a thread that connects you to your past and to each other.
Celebrating Filipino Holidays Together (Even from Afar)
Filipino holidays are a time for family. Even if you can’t be there in person, find ways to celebrate together. Send a care package filled with Filipino treats, video call during Noche Buena, or participate in online Simbang Gabi. These traditions remind your kids of their roots and make them feel connected to you. Even sending remittances back home during Christmas can be a strong reminder of our culture, as shown by a recent report stating how huge remittances are to the Philippines during Christmas season.
Cooking and Sharing Filipino Food
Food is a big part of Filipino culture. Encourage your family to cook Filipino dishes together. Share recipes and stories about your favorite foods from back home. Video call while they’re cooking and share in the experience. Maybe have a weekly “Filipino Food Night” where everyone cooks and eats together, even if you’re on a video call. Many Filipinos use food to show affection.
Speaking the Filipino Language
Language is key to preserving your culture. Encourage your kids to speak Filipino at home. Watch Filipino movies and TV shows together, or read Filipino books. If they’re struggling, consider online Tagalog classes. This helps them feel connected to their identity and allows them to communicate more deeply with relatives back home.
Sharing Filipino Stories and Folklore
Share stories about your childhood, your family, and Filipino folklore. Tell them about the Manananggal, the Tikbalang, and other creatures from Filipino mythology. These stories are part of your heritage and can spark your kids’ imaginations. Discuss the stories you know. This could be a powerful way for younger OFW children to feel connected to the culture.
Effective Communication Strategies for OFW Families
Communication is key to any relationship, but it’s especially important for OFW families. You need to be intentional about staying connected and sharing your lives with each other.
Scheduling Regular Video Calls
Don’t just rely on random calls or texts. Schedule regular video calls so you can see each other and talk face-to-face. Having this planned time can really help.
Using Technology to Stay Connected
There are so many ways to stay connected these days! Use messaging apps, social media, and even dedicated family apps to share photos, videos, and updates. Consider creating a family group chat where you can share daily updates and funny memes. There are even apps that help you plan events and manage family tasks.
Active Listening: Really Hearing What Your Family is Saying
When you talk to your family, really listen to what they’re saying. Don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Pay attention to their body language, their tone of voice, and their feelings. Ask questions and show that you care. Paraphrase a little using statements like, “It sounds like, …” or “So, what you are saying is …”. Avoid interrupting, and refrain from unsolicited advice unless asked for.
Expressing Love and Appreciation
Don’t take your family for granted. Tell them you love them, appreciate them, and are proud of them. A simple “I love you” or “I’m so proud of you” can go a long way, especially when they are handling chores back home.
Financial Stability and Education: Investing in the Future
As an OFW, you’re working hard to provide for your family’s future. Making smart financial decisions and prioritizing education are key investments. Many studies show education contributes to financial stability. The Philippine Statistics Authority also releases quarterly reports on remittance data to support family needs.
Budgeting and Saving for Your Family’s Goals
Create a budget and stick to it. Set goals for your savings, like buying a house, paying for your kids’ education, or starting a business. Involve your family in the budgeting process so they understand the importance of saving and are more motivated to help.
Prioritizing Education for Your Children
Education is the key to a better future. Make sure your kids are getting the best possible education. Support their studies, encourage their interests, and help them pursue their dreams. Many OFWs see their sacrifices as investments for future generations.
Investing in Your Own Professional Development
Don’t forget about your own education and career growth! Take online courses, attend seminars, and learn new skills. This will not only help you earn more money but also inspire your children to pursue their own learning.
Planning for Your Return Home
Think about your long-term goals. Do you want to retire back in the Philippines? Start a business? Make sure you have a plan for your return home and start saving and investing accordingly. Enrolling in financial literacy programs may help with setting goals.
Seeking Support and Guidance: You’re Not Alone
Being an OFW can be lonely and stressful. Remember, you’re not alone. There are many resources available to help you and your family.
Connecting with Other OFW Families
Join OFW support groups or online forums. Share your experiences, learn from others, and offer each other support. Knowing that you’re not the only one facing these challenges can be a huge relief.
Seeking Professional Counseling or Therapy
If you or your family are struggling with the separation, don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling or therapy. A therapist can help you cope with the emotional challenges of being an OFW and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Utilizing Government Resources for OFWs
The Philippine government offers various programs and services for OFWs, such as financial assistance, legal advice, and training programs. Take advantage of these resources to help you and your family thrive. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a great place to start.
Remembering Your “Why”
When things get tough, remember why you became an OFW in the first place. Remind yourself of your goals and your dreams for your family. This will help you stay motivated and overcome the challenges you face.
FAQ Section
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions about building a strong OFW family:
How can I stay connected to my kids when I’m so far away?
Schedule regular video calls, send them messages and photos, and participate in their activities as much as possible, even virtually. Try to schedule a regular movie or game night via the internet.
My spouse is having a hard time managing everything at home. What can I do?
Listen to their concerns, offer support, and help them find resources to make their life easier. Consider hiring help with household chores or childcare.
How can I teach my kids about Filipino culture when they’re growing up in a different country?
Speak Filipino at home, cook Filipino food, celebrate Filipino holidays, and share Filipino stories and traditions. Expose them to Filipino media (movies, music, books) and connect them with Filipino communities.
My kids are resentful that I’m not there. How can I address this?
Acknowledge their feelings, validate their emotions, and explain why you’re working abroad. Spend quality time with them when you can, and make sure they know you love them.
How can I make sure my family’s finances are secure while I’m away?
Create a budget, save regularly, invest wisely, and plan for your family’s future. Consider seeking financial advice from a trusted professional.
It’s hard to communicate some deep issues. What should I do?
You may send a message or letter if you have a hard time speaking face to face. Just make sure to address the problem at hand and avoid escalating the issue further. Don’t delay confronting the issue to avoid resentment over time.
References
Following are references used to create this article. These entries are provided without links as requested by the instructions.
- “Impact of parental migration on children’s educational and social development: A review of literature” (Journal of Family Studies)
- Philippine Statistics Authority. (Date of Access). Remittance Data.
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). (Date of Access). Programs and Services.
You’ve read this far, which means you’re dedicated to strengthening your family bond despite the distance. Now, take action! Start by scheduling that video call with your family this week. Talk about your family values, plan a Filipino-themed dinner, and reach out to an OFW support group. Every small step counts towards building a stronger, more connected family. Start today!
