Working with refugees is some of the most rewarding work. The staff and I get the opportunity to actively work at improving the quality of one’s life. We get the chance to change lives and impact others for a living; however, as much as we give to the refugee community, it is often us who are blessed. The refugee population at Catholic Charities comes from many different countries and even more different languages. They come to the United States not only looking for a better life but often times to stay alive. They have traveled by foot, boat, car, bus, and airplane. They have lost loved ones, seen horrific events take place before their eyes, and have spent years living in continual fear. Yet, they are resilient. They have shown so many resiliencies in the face of so much adversity. They are so eager to learn and then return the gift of learning to those coming behind them. They are excited about life in the United States. They are willing to work in factories even if they were doctors in their home country. They are facing life head on with a determination exhibited by few others. Although each refugee story is unique, each story tells a tale of hope, courage, and strength. As Americans, I think we so often take for granted the free country that we live in. We have a home to live in, food to eat, and are not running in fear for our lives, and yet we often fail to remember that this is not a guarantee for many others scattered throughout the world. We could all learn a thing or two from the refugees. We can learn about hope, gratefulness, joy, and resiliency.
Catholic Charities Refugee and Immigrant Services invites you to be changed and impacted by the journey of a refugee. Whether that is volunteering with our agency or simply becoming more familiar with the refugees who live in your community and across the world. If everyone could stop for a moment, take a step back, and try to see this life through the eyes of refugee I believe we would all live life a little better.
