In the heart of Beirut, Lebanon, lies the poignant story of Yunus, a Lebanese expatriate, whose journey reflects the silent struggles of countless individuals working abroad. This narrative, part of Karamot Ullah Biplob’s ‘Duniyar Golpo’ series, sheds light on the immense sacrifices made for family, often coupled with unexpected emotional challenges.

Yunus’s experience is a testament to the harsh realities faced by expatriates. Despite dedicating years to working tirelessly, many find themselves grappling with the emotional toll of distance, misunderstanding, and the relentless pressure to provide. His story highlights the critical need for families back home to truly comprehend the difficulties faced by their loved ones abroad.

Life in Beirut as an Expatriate

Yunus has been living in Beirut, Lebanon, for over three years. He recounts the stark differences in safety, noting that Christian areas remained unaffected by conflict, while Shia Muslim regions experienced significant turmoil. Despite the sound of bombs, Yunus’s specific location, Zouk Mosbeh in Adonieh, remained safe.

He shares that Beirut hosts many Bangladeshi expatriates, all engaged in various forms of work to support their families. Yunus, himself, is preparing to return home after a year, burdened by the mental and emotional strain of his life abroad.

The Weight of Sacrifice and Misunderstanding

The core of Yunus’s struggle lies in the perceived lack of understanding from his family. He emphasizes that expatriates like him endure immense hardship – working day and night, often skipping meals – all for the well-being of their families. Yet, when these sacrifices are not reciprocated with understanding or support, the emotional burden becomes unbearable.

Yunus sends approximately 40,000 Taka home each month, but laments that none of it is saved; it’s all spent. This lack of financial progress, coupled with family discord, makes him feel that his efforts have not been truly successful. He expressed significant physical decline, losing 8-10 kg due to constant worry and the challenges of living away from home.

His family consists of his wife and two sons, aged 12-13 and 7-8, who attend a madrasa. With his parents no longer alive, the weight of responsibility for his immediate family rests entirely on his shoulders.

A Call for Family Empathy

Yunus’s powerful message to other expatriates and their families is one of empathy and communication. He stresses that life as an expatriate is incredibly difficult, often feeling “tougher than jail.” He urges families to recognize the immense sacrifices their loved ones make and to support them, not just financially, but emotionally.

  • Expatriates work tirelessly, often sacrificing their own comfort.
  • Family understanding and support are crucial for the mental well-being of those abroad.
  • The financial contributions often come at a significant personal cost.

His story serves as a heartfelt reminder that while physical distance separates families, emotional connection and mutual understanding are vital to navigate the complex journey of an expatriate.

This video shares the emotional journey of Yunus, a Lebanese expatriate, exploring the challenges and sacrifices faced by those living far from home for their families. It’s part of Karamot Ullah Biplob’s ‘Duniyar Golpo’ series, aiming to bring real-life stories to light. For inquiries, email [email protected].