The life of a seafarer is both demanding and exciting. It is demanding because of all the challenges and the frustrations: far from your friends and family. Separation from loved ones is difficult to accept and endure.Phone and email can help but it is never easy. I know seafarers who could not endure the heartbreak and chose to stop sailing. While a seafarer is at sea, there may be family problems at home. It can make life on-board unbearable and leave the seafarer feeling miserable. And yet I feel it is an exciting and enriching life. As human beings we work together and grow in humanity. Crews are usually mixed which could be very difficult if differences of race, language and culture created animosity among seafarers. In general though, there is a sense of fellowship and solidarity in the face of difficulty. I consider myself lucky to lead such a life. Sharing, encountering and communicating: these words encapsulate my life on-board as a crew and a disciple of Christ. Maybe I have given a little but I have received so much more from all seafarers I have met on my way. In all their diversity, they have helped me to be more human..
Posted on: Sun, 16 Mar 2014 07:45:35 +0000