Migrating is no easy feat, moving for love, education, work, or even sanctuary.
We all migrate for the right reasons and sometimes even for the wrong ones. Leaving the place, people, and the small town you call home can be a big deal because with moving comes the uncertainty that settles in the pit of one’s stomach.
That feeling is one we have all felt at least once; the product of that all-consuming fear of things not turning out as one has planned or hoped for.
But here is what plays, by the time you get to the train station, airport, bus/motor park another feeling emerges similar to adrenaline, this one gives you a rush of energy and positivity, call it hope if you will.
The kind Eze must have had on his first day of going to school or you on your first day at boarding school.
People migrate in different ways too; there are the ones that move with credentials in hand and hope in the pocket – these ones are looking for the fabled greener pastures. Before they set out, they would have probably called a friend to beg for a spot on their couch for a few weeks. If writers, they pick up their pen and note in block letters in their dog-eared journal: ‘ The fear of Migration’ and then get set to tell their story.
There are the ones that move with Excitement and Thrill in their breast pocket– these ones have planned on migrating for years but then one day the opportunity comes knocking, like a landlord on a Monday morning when your rent has been late for weeks and with the tightest grasp here they are on an early morning flight to New York thanking their lucky starts; if a writer they will reach for their brand new journal, unplug their earphones and write on a new page: ‘The Beginning of a new Beginning’ and then they will tell their story
Lets consider the ones that migrate with a certain high, these ones leave in the hope that whatever they are running from will never catch up with them. With hands clasped they pray till they arrive; hoping and praying that they are finally free of that thing dogging their heels. If they are writers, the first entry on the new page of their new journal will read – ‘ A Fresh Start’
Last but not least, there are the ones that migrate for love or passion. These are the bravest of all, crossing the vast ocean or just a couple of states and cities to try on something new which maybe, just maybe, might work out. Despite the thrill of passion, they migrate not just with a certain fear but also a great measure of love and if they are writers, they would down whiskey after whiskey to tame the nerve as they flip open their journal to start a story on a new page possibly titled ‘All for you”
And once they arrive, they will be in a good position to share tips on surviving migration: A Writers Guide On Migration
First things first; say a prayer to whatever God you believe in as the chances of them listening are high. I mean they brought you here. You might instantly feel better but if you don’t, pour yourself a stiff drink and grab a chair.
Secondly, teach your eyes to adjust; they are beholding a new environment and even if they have been there before the POV has changed. Have some good ol’ courage, it will come in handy whether it is to apply for a job or to ask for directions. Banish fear!
Thirdly, focus on the task at hand and try not be in a hurry, everything is new and getting the hang of things will take time.
Develop healthy habits and if the time zone is different try synchronizing the routine, jet lag can be a real bitch.
Fourthly, in whatever form be kind to yourself, you have gone through something to be here. Be the agama lizard. Nod to yourself in congratulations.
Try to make a friend or two or even three. Hell, you can have a whole squad. Friends to go out with, watch movies with, dine and party with because, parties have a way of relieving stress.
Always take out time to do some reflecting, if not for anything to count your blessings and be grateful for the ones to come. If your city is a tourist delight, take long walks and go sight-seeing. Engage in activities that give you life, eat ice cream (studies says it is good for the mind), go for a run or a swim, let the earth feel your toes and let your hair fly in the wind!
Call your loved ones often.
Cook home meals and practice traditions as often as you can. These help bring home along with you.
Lastly, WRITE whenever you can. Create stories and write poetry that will hold you on some days and heal you on others.
***Tarinabo Diete is a writer from Nigeria, she believes every story must be told.
