I think of all the things that are happening and i wonder the meaning of it all. A friend who's constructed a new house but cant attend the house-warming ceremony due to an onsite trip. A friend who doesnt like to marry a girl he's meeting 'online', but has no other choice. A friend who had a happy married life but a mediocre job back home, came here for better oppurtunities, had no luck with his job search and is now working in a grocery store. Not all are sob stories. One who has bought an European car first hand and thus i believe achieved salvation in life. Another who has come from a poor family but is now able to send money back for his sister's marriage. This is a land of stories, some shared, but many hidden deep in one's own heart.
Generations will come attracted by the glitter of the exchange rate and a better quality of life, but is this really worth it. To not be able to talk to your own brother when its really needed, but to be able to buy the PS3 he wants. To not be able to spend an evening on your terrace with your own friends, but drive to casinos and spend time like zombies. Perception, is all that is. It maybe true that i am judging it all too early. Tell me what really is early. Should i speak after this land and its people and culture have taken a toll on me. After i embrace a new rich and meaningless life ?
What got me started today was the knowledge that a friend's father had passed away. Of course, he started ASAP, but i believe that will not be enough. In the time that he should be with his own, he will be on a flight fighting sleep and tears. Is this it ? One small sacrifice that we make for the sake of everything else. Not being there to hold your father's hand in his last moments. Not being able to console your mother when she needs it the most. The body will be taken care of. The ceremonies will be performed. And the void shall remain.
Yes my friend, you will earn more money than me. Your kids will go to richer schools and you will afford better cars. But you will never be happier than me. You will never be an part of the company you work for, just a contractor. You will be able to buy exquisites, but will live a nomad. All things in life have pros and cons. And it is an irony that i knowingly share the same fate as you today.
I might be guilty of growing deep roots.
But deep roots is better than no roots.
