A Lin is a Filipino migrant worker in Taiwan and has been taking care of my mother for years. Working as a migrant worker is much different than studying abroad or working as a company transfer. We might seek out leisurely activities after school or after our 9-5, but migrant workers usually don’t have the luxury to do so. I frequently imagine myself in her shoes, trying to understand her motivation for leaving the comforts of her hometown for an uncertain future in a foreign country. What kind of clients will she encounter? What type of person would she be taking care of? What is it like living and interacting with their families? Both language and cultural barrier only serve to enhance these obstacles, making a career more unpredictable.

A Lin honestly admits to “No money, no life.” Because Taiwan offers her a more stable, faster source of income, she made the difficult decision to leave her family in Philippines in hopes of a better life. She is a wonderful caregiver: not only is she experienced with the elderly, but also self-disciplined, dedicated, and patient. Her work ethic and drive are extremely apparent in her care of my mother. During a particular hospital stay, I was able to observe firsthand her perseverance and optimistic attitude. Every adult child desires the best for their parents, and I was touched to see A Lin take care of my mother as if she was her own. I wondered how she could make a monotonous routine so personal and important to the people around her. If I were A Lin, could I do that for someone else? Such a display of love was humbling, and I feel deeply grateful and fortunate that our family is lucky enough to have a person who will take care of my mother like she does. A Lin truly shines at her work, and I am beyond proud to be part of her family in Taiwan.

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My mother was safely discharged from the hospital on September 4th and currently doing well at home. The biggest blessing, after all, is an ordinary routine.