Lonely at sea, a father yearns for his family
Ronte Jose 'Teejay" Rosales Sison has been working as Chief Cook for more than a decade on board an offshore vessel when he became a father.
He admits that this has made it more difficult for him to be away from home, always anticipating the time when he would return to his wife, May, and their threeyear-old daughter Chloe. But then again, his wife and daughter are also the same reason he cherises the work he is doing now, because in the end, all his sacrifices are for his family.
“You can go to different places or countries for free, so it’s an enriching experience for me. But it’s still very hard, especially since my daughter is still very young,” says Sison.
His family is constantly in his thoughts, that's why he appreciates the convenience of modern technology. It is now easier to talk to his wife anytime he wants via Skype, and he gets updates of what’s happening at home via Facebook and Instagram.
The young father is currently working at Anscor Swire Ship Management (ASSM), and goes on board on a contractual basis which works well for him as he can go home every three to six months after his current contract ends. He admittedly feels blessed because it’s an ideal setup compared to other OFWs.
The difficult part, however, is not getting to see his daughter as often as he wants. “It’s hard when you get homesick, especially when you know you’re missing events like Christmas, New Year, and birthdays. For us seafarers, you also can’t help but think of your family during these times.”
Still, Sison understands the importance of what he does, knowing his role as a father to make sure that his family gets the best in life. “Thinking of your family’s future is the best way to beat homesickness. Of course, prayers help a lot, too.”
This Father’s Day, he continues to wish the best for his loved ones while he is somewhere far away, fighting loneliness at sea, without his family.