Guilt, Growth, and Gratitude: The Emotional Journey of an OFW Mom

Being a mom is already an emotional journey—but being a mom and an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) adds layers I never expected.

I’m one of the fortunate ones—I get to live abroad with my husband and child. But that doesn’t mean I’m spared from the guilt that many OFW parents feel. Even with work-life balance, there are moments I still struggle. Moments when I feel the quiet tug of guilt creeping in, especially when I have to miss a milestone or leave my child in someone else’s care.

The Guilt You Don’t Always Talk About

There are days when work pulls me away from school activities or bedtime routines. Days when I can’t help with homework or sit down for dinner together. It seems small from the outside, but to a mom, missing those moments can feel heavy.

Even something as simple as hearing my child say, “You weren’t there today,” stays with me longer than I admit.

And I know—I’m lucky. I have a job. I have my family with me. I get to be present more often than many OFW parents can. Still, the guilt is real. Because even if we’re doing our best, we can't always be everywhere at once.

The Growth That Comes With It

But guilt isn't the only thing I’ve felt on this journey. There’s also growth.

I’ve learned to be more intentional with my time. I no longer take short walks, random talks, or ordinary mornings for granted. Every small window of connection matters.

This life has made me stronger, more patient, and more aware of what truly matters. I may not be a “perfect mom,” but I am a present one—and that’s something I’ve grown into with time.

The Gratitude That Grounds Me

Most of all, I feel grateful.

Grateful that I get to work and provide. Grateful that my child is growing up seeing a mother who is both nurturing and hardworking. Grateful for the little wins—like being able to pick him up from school, or just hear about his day while I do the dishes.

I know some parents don’t get that luxury. Some OFWs are thousands of miles away from their children, missing entire chapters of their lives. That thought never leaves me—and it reminds me to hold space for other moms doing their best in harder situations.

A Quiet Reflection

This journey is full of emotion. It’s not just about the career, or the paycheck, or survival. It’s also about the little heartbreaks and small joys. The trade-offs we silently accept. The milestones we miss. The love we stretch across time zones—or even across the room—when our minds are still at work.

If you're an OFW parent—or just a parent trying to balance everything—know this:
You’re not alone. Your feelings are valid. And your love still shows, even when you can't be everywhere all at once.

I’d love to hear from you. What’s one thing you’ve learned about yourself on this journey? Let’s keep this conversation going in the comments below.