Ever since I left my job, I've found life to be more meaningful and joyful - Photo:St Columbans Mission Society
Looking back on my life before becoming a missionary, I realized I wanted to do more with my life. I was studying, working but still had a yearning that I was not doing what I felt suited my life the most. I wanted to do something meaningful and whilst I was working out what to do, I did not feel I had my own space to call my own and to ponder my thoughts. My space was the bag I carried on my back every time I moved from one mission to another. After high school I left home to pursue a childhood dream – to become a priest.
I joined the college program for the Columbans in Cebu, Philippines, but after a few years decided to leave the seminary and work. Cebu became my adoptive home for a long time. It was where I completed my degree, worked as a teacher and pursued my graduate studies.
For about five years, I sat at the computer making reports and presentations, and on my free days I would be working out in the field. I am grateful for the experience and lessons I learned while I was working. I have no complaints because I loved my work. But eventually I was looking for more – a way of life I've always dreamt of since I was a young boy. So I decided to ditch my desk and leave a promising career for a much more simple life, that of a missionary.
My journey has brought my feet to lands I have never thought I would one day set foot on – the islands of Fiji and Myanmar. But to be welcomed into the hearts of people I meet every day is the greatest privilege we priests are blessed with.
Ever since I left my job, I've found life to be more meaningful and joyful. There would be days of heartaches and challenges, but it makes the journey a bit more like an adventure.
My missionary journey has brought my feet to lands I have never thought I would set foot on – the islands of Fiji and Myanmar. To be welcomed into the hearts of people I meet every day is the greatest privilege we priests are blessed with. And so every opportunity, every encounter I have with them I try to be as welcoming and compassionate as Jesus has been with me. I especially cherish working with young people. They can teach us a lot.
I am now working in Myanmar and am helping young people discern about their vocation in life and planting the seed of mission in them. This gives me a great reward.
I am always reflecting on the question: "Are you up to ditching that desk? Pope Francis challenges us, "Ask Jesus what he wants from you and be brave."
Columban Fr. Kurt Zion Pala lives and works in Myanmar.
