In 2023 on a trip to Poland, I closely witnessed life of Ukraine Refugees, searching for life and home in times of war. An emotional experience, which moved me. Learning stories of pain people feel when they are forced to flee their homes is transformational in many ways. This trip to Poland made me reflect on my own story! Not of facing displacement due to geopolitical war but definitely facing economic war. Story of the hard choice I made to leave home, children, family, and friends, in search of work to a new city. Thus, decide to share my life’s adventure through this my writings. An economic migrant or we can call it internally displaced person, moving across cities on work, with a suitcase full of clothes, embraced by a new city with good weather.

I never dreamt, to live alone and not be with my children. But as they say, life throws an adversity, and it is up to us how we take it in our stride. I am inspired by the book ‘Man’s search for meaning’ by Viktor E Frankl, which shows what it takes to keep hope and face the hardest reality of life. I learnt from my experiences too, sometimes, the choice we make is the only option and that is what matters the most. Because quitting is not a possibility and trying to live in hope is the only choice. On the positive side, I am confident that this episode will make me stronger, adaptable, resilient and define the future course of my life. This change will surely turn me into an agent of change and leader who is contributing and growing in many ways. Plus, diversity of living across cities will expand my talent and expertise to a whole new level. The feminist in me also believes that it sets a good example for my children to face life and never quit a situation till we learn to give it a good hand of trying.

Today when I reflect back almost after two years, I feel it was meant to be a stop on my home coming journey. Living away taught some of the most valuable lessons and helped me meet myself as more aware.