Many people in Australia, are concerned about how they will be able to stay in contact with family and friends during the lockdown period. For them this will be a new experience, but for many people including some of our students at YTU and most of the ELSPM students, this is something they have had to learn while studying at school. Again, most have been separated from their relatives and friends during their time in the seminary or religious community. Now they are living in Australia, very far away.

Cau is one of these men and he agreed to offer a reflection in the hope that others can be encouraged by his experience. Last year his father suffered a severe stroke. The cost of travel and the conditions of his visa made it almost impossible for him to go home and see his father at that time. This was a big cross for him. Here is Cau’s reflection.

In my personal opinion, I think that everybody wants to live near their family. I do, as well. Sometimes, I remember my family so much, because I have lived away from family for 11 years already.

The first year (2009) when I was away from home, sometimes I cried because I missed them so much. Moreover, at that time I did not have a phone and I just wrote some letters by hand to send my regards and love to them. However, after a time I have adjusted gradually and accepted my situation.

Even though, I am living in the religious life, it does not mean that I give up my family. On the contrary, our family is very important in both normal life and in consecrated life. Therefore, I often contact them.

When I was in Vietnam, sometimes I called and spoke with them. And since I came to Australia in July 2019, I have used the Internet to chat or talk (face time or video) with my parents and siblings about once every 2 weeks or more.

However, if my parents or siblings have some problems such as illness or accidents or worse, if they were to die, it is very difficult for me. But I could not do nothing! I just know to pray and commit them into the loving hands of God. Another way for me is to call them and share my life with them and encourage them.