Leaving home and the hassles of it all

mi·grate [ mi gràyt ]

Definition (Source: Encarta MSN):
1. move from place to place; Social Sciences intransitive verb to move from one region or country to another, often to seek work or other economic opportunities.

Yesterday I was asked how I broke it to my parents the idea of migrating over to NZ. Short answer: I pitched the idea in them as lucrative (for them) as possble. Sold them the idea that in the long run, it would be good for me, for them and possibly even for my siblings and their families.

In truth, I was really wasn't thinking at all. I just went with a gut feeling. And I hated the environment surrounding me at the time and was chronically unhappy with life. I'll be the first to admit that one can read me like a text book most times. That is how simple I try to keep things. My life at that time was bitter-sweet. On one hand I was exploring new things with little or no success and on the other hand, I was exploring new things. Though I somewhat enjoy a steady income, I made bad decisions which left me close to nothing at the end of the month. I was told that is normal for rookies but I felt that something was just not right with the way things were. So when the opportunity presents itself, I decided to leave home for good.

It wasn't a bad decision to leave home but I must admit that it was a poorly planned one. I knew it wasn't as easy as some may put it but I didn't think too much and perhaps over simplified my plan. Even when my decision was questioned, I justified it to others but secretly I wasn't convincing myself.

Poorly planned..why? Because I left with very little cash-in-hand, with some personal belongings, with practically no appointments waiting for me, nothing. Indeed I left home to nothing but a hope...and a very supportive partner.

I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for her in the first place. I wouldn't have left the 'comforts' of home even if it sucks so bad every other day. I'd probably be jumping into a defferent industry to try and make things better and pray that my environment improved. Instead, I saw the opportunity as an adventure for the both of us and a possibility for us to achieve things we wouldn't normally be able to in KL. I don't think she'd be happy if she started her accounting career in KL. She might get on with it despite the environment but she would definitely be much better off here in NZ.

So needless to say, I struggled a lot upon coming back to NZ. We had to learn to live with each other, adjust to each other's ways and sometimes it could get rather strenous. But slowly we pulled through together. Then I had to adjust myself with my new environment. Things certainly changed a lot in two years. My friends that lived here changed a lot in two years. Most of them left for other things.

Immigration was another pickle to sort out. First I needed to get my work permit sorted out. Imagine, I moved here with a possibility of not succededing and moving back to KL within 3 months. The first application we made, we ended up wasting 4 hours in waiting only to be rejected. We had to overcome that and luckily for me (or us rather), my work permit was approved on my second application and I was on my way to look for a job. With the help of an old friend, I was offered to work with him on his new venture. It was not much to start off with but it helped put food on my plate and clothes on my back. Now I am able to help with the bills too with some change in my pocket.

The next step was to apply for permanent residency. I remember we had to endure stormy weather for that one. Patience, time and determination for both of us was required. We had to constantly be confident for one another. I think my friends who migrated overseas (Canada and US mostly) with the help of their respective local partners is very fortunate not to go through the uncertain times we had to endure. That being said, I'm sure they had to face their own version of uncertainties too.

We didn't hear from NZIS for months until one day, we were finally assigned a case officer. Things were slowly working our way. So much time and effort were made to get the neccessary documentations, paperwork, authentications done up and again, it was strenous times. But this time around, we were highly motivated.

The day we got our PR wasn't really how I imagined it to be. Champagne flowing, getting drunk like a skunk in joy, happy to seek greater opportunities. Instead, I was more relieved than happy that it was all over and done with. Maybe I was more in shock and disbelief that I pulled it off. What a tale...left with almost nothing but hope. Really, tribute must be paid to my partner for her support for without her, I'd be nothing. I think I still am nothing without her. Debts must be repaid to my parents and my family. If they hadn't cleared and provided me the way I wouldn't have succeeded.

Comparing today to this date last year, I think my partner and I are much happier, we've achieving a lot over the last 12 months and our careers are progressing smoothly. It's not perfect but most thing in life never are to begin with. Soon I'm hoping to develop myself further and enhace my range of skills. Hopefully, when I've achieved that I can kick start a desired career of my own. And perhaps start sending some money to my parents -Such an asian thing isn't it?-

My advise, when a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity like this presents itself, plan yourself ahead. Plan carefully and take all matters into consideration. But don't brood over it. You have to be positive, emotionally and mentally prepared - You will need all the patience in the world. Brooding will only encourage negative energy. Make sure some money is available, afterall money is a factor in this world. Tie up as many loose ends as possible before you leave. And finally, it pays to have a little faith in yourself and hope for the best. It's even better when you have an understanding, supporting, caring and loving partner by your side. At least you won't be so lonely. The other emotional stuff like missing home can be dealt with thanks to Voice over IP (VoIP), Instant messaging and call cards.