How are you all doing, guys?
I want to write another post about me leaving Thailand particularly my emotions in the last week before my departure from the country. While I am remembering my last few days, I realize how different I feel now, two weeks later. Mostly, I was feeling excited about going back to the Philippines but at the same time, melancholic to be leaving the country I fell in love with.
For those who moved to another country, city or home, you will surely understand how I feel. Or for anyone, who said their goodbye to someone they love, the feeling would be similar too.
Saying Goodbye
It’s hard to say goodbye. In my case, I lived in Bangkok for five years. I had my ups and downs but most of the time, I found my life there to be comfortable. My job was incredible and I already had my routine and a close relationship with my colleagues and friends. I think it was harder for me to say goodbye to my students who I had taught for years. They and their parents were close to me so when I explained that I won’t be teaching them anymore, some were surprised while others cried. This made me teary-eyed and heartbroken too.
I’m going to miss this kulit tutee of mine. =)
My last week was certainly the hardest. At my school, for instance, they had this year-end program where they would ask teachers and staffs who will be leaving the school to come up on stage to receive a token of their appreciation of their service. I got to do that too which finally confirmed that I won’t be a part of the institution anymore. Thinking this added to my sadness but I will always be grateful for the experiences and life lessons I learned while working there.
My melancholy doubled when I started packing my stuff. I sent a balikbayan box to the Philippines in advance because I accumulated many things that I couldn’t just let go. In my opinion, deciding which things to dispose of and which one to keep was even harder. While I was doing this, I came across my old souvenirs, maps, and tickets that gave me good memories of my stay. It wasn’t easy but I had to throw them away because unfortunately, I couldn’t bring all my things back home.
Thank you
It was hard but I had to do it. Thailand had been good to me. I become whoever I am now because of the years I spent in it. Thailand is not only a beautiful country but the people are also kind and friendly. I am now more open-minded after being exposed to the world outside the Philippines. I experienced a different culture and met people from all over the world. What they say is true about seeing the world and expanding your horizon. If before, I only had a little bit of idea of what the world looks like, now, I can say that I have a broader understanding of it. Maybe, I am now wiser and more mature because of it.
All my bags are packed and pasalubongs.
Today, two weeks later, I’m proud to say that I’m not feeling very down anymore. I am having more happy moments in my life from seeing family, relatives, and friends again. I have not even seen all of them but my day is packed with meetings from here and there. It is awesome to be back. =)
Not Goodbye
It’s great to be back home. At the moment, I am not missing Thailand or how my life was yet. However, I know transitioning to a new life in the Philippines will present new challenges to me soon. I’m ready for it.
I’ll end this by saying that I will always be grateful for my life in Thailand. I’ve got memories I will forever cherish for the rest of my life. So, I’m not going to say “goodbye” but instead, “I will see you again”.
Thank you & I’ll see you again, Thailand.
I felt the same way when left Thailand 7 years ago. I worked as an English Teacher for more than 4 years and i was also teary eyed when i said goodbye to the school i worked with more than 4 years. I miss Thailand so much!
Thank you, Emelie for your comment. It’s comforting to know someone experienced this too. Since you managed years later, I am confident that I will too. =)
Hello Maam!
I stumbler upon your blog long before but i dont give much attention to it until I saw your youtube chanel. How difficult it is to land on the job which I supposed ( you didnt work in mainstream, did you?) teaching Children with Special Needs?