Liberia

My new family of refugees (New Australians) are FANTASTIC!
They are all from Liberia a troubled country and have all lost so much yet remain so happy and look to the future.

Both ladies are my age with three children among them and we have so much in common yet so little really.
By that i mean we come from such extreme backgrounds and upbringing yet have the same troubles with children, money, relationships etc here in Australia.

They constantly amaze me by there sheer willingness to learn. They want degrees and licenses etc which in reality is such a daunting task yet i know each and everyone of them will achieve this. I'm not sure if the motivation comes from deprivation but they certainly have more determination and willingness to put in the hard yards than any Aussie i've ever met.

They think Australia is "HEAVEN" which is understandable considering their previous surroundings not only of tiny huts sleeping 18 in a refugee camp but before that in Liberia many didn't even have the basics.

Imagine walking hours a day to collect a small bucket of contaminated water with which you had to wash, cook, drink and share among your family knowing it will make you sick yet knowing you'll die if you don't drink it; then to come to Australia where even in a drought you can flush a toilet and watch litres wash away to no where, turn on a tap, even see people wash cars or water gardens in bigger cities. It must literally blow their minds.

How lucky we all are!

I am so pleased to have met these people they are so full of love and joy i cannot wait to be touched by it.

Refugees

I have recently signed up to become a volunteer to help settle refugees into Australia.

I think this is a wonderful way to not only help another human being but also help myself.
I will gain a greater understanding of not only the plight of refugees but also a new culture, another countries beliefs and day to day workings along with gaining many new friends and having something to show for my life on this planet.

I think there is nothing more powerful a person can do than to be the change in a persons life. Wether that be your child, your friend, family or a stranger.

I encourage others to join this program, it runs Australia wide and needs more volunteers. You can help as little or as much as you like.

I'll keep you all updated on how this new endeavour plays out.