A s an overseas worker, it is hard to tell my family that I cannot be with them on Christmas. Things or money is easy to be given but my presence is hard. I know their Christmas will not be completed without me. It is also sad for me that we can’t be together on many occasions, but I know that these sacrifices will pay off someday.
— Maria Janet Tabingo
To say “no” to a request from loved ones is not easy specially for us working abroad. The best way is to be honest when I cannot fulfill a request asked. I will sincerely tell them the reason. More often my heart melts when they ask this question, “Will you be home for Christmas?” I have to tell them “no” because as an overseas worker we should prioritise our boss’ request. And when it comes to material request, I must see to it that I do not spend more than what I am earning. Honesty is indeed the best policy when it comes to family members who should understand and accept us no matter what. I will tell them that the true meaning of Christmas is that Christ was born to forgive our sins. This is the true reason why Christmas is so special for us.
— Camile Genio
It is possible to say no to a family request during Christmas specially if the request is unreasonable, unnecessary, impractical, unhealthy or harmful for them. I will give them a good explanation of the situation why I turn it down. I will let them know I reject the request because of my love and concern all for their own good and everybody’s safety. If situations allow and I am financially capable, I would gladly and reasonably grant them their requests and make them happier for the Christmas holidays. Most of all I need to make them understand that Christmas is a time of caring, giving and loving in a non-material way. Make everyday a Christmas day.
— Sonia Layaoen
Before we talk to our family, we need to think about the reasons that make sense and are acceptable for them. For example if they want us to be home on Christmas holiday, let’s just tell them that travelling and celebrating the holidays during this pandemic is incredibly risky for a number of reasons. We need to explain to them nicely and tell them we may have better luck next holiday season or after this pandemic. If they are asking for Christmas gifts, I can give them something that is affordable. But if it is too expensive and I cannot afford, I can just say sorry for their disappointment. Let’s just find good reasons so that they will understand better. It is best to be practical before what is happening around the world, where money is hard to earn and to still have a job is a blessing to be grateful to God.
— Analyn Poloyapoy
I think our family should be happy enough with how much we can remit to them because of our situation here abroad. We do not always have the money to support them. How can we survive if we spend more than what we can afford? But it is always important to turn down their request courteously and to be honest about the reason.
— Shella Mae Sadio
My family always understands my difficulty as a domestic worker here and they do not really have any special request during Christmas. In fact, I am the one who sometimes request them to help.
— Earthel Ramos
I may need to say no to a family request even during the Christmas time. I always prioritise the “needs” and if my budget allows that is the time I will consider the “wants”. I train my family to appreciate even small things because working abroad is not easy. They also know that I extend my help if truly there is a necessity. They must value love, humanity and kindness over material things.
— Irene Alojado
