I had an encounter on my way to work today with the manager of the deli department at my local grocery store.  I am constantly made fun of for knowing everyone's name who works at the grocery store and for chatting so much that it takes me extra time to do my shopping.  Today's conversation, however, was particularly eye opening. 

I've been aware that this particular employee is currently working 50+ hours a week  at the grocery store and taking courses to get his MBA.  He is taking 3 courses a term which is a very heavy load when added to his work schedule.  I asked him if he had a family and he responded that his family was "at home" in Ghana.  I asked a little more and learned that he's lived in the US for 6 years and goes home once a year to see his wife and 10 year old son.  

Why does he do this?  Because he wants to get ahead and provide for his family! He plans to move back to Ghana once he finishes his MBA and get a much better paying job than he could otherwise.  He said that businesses there are looking for people with experience working in the US and his MBA will make him that much more marketable. 

But at what cost?  Does he know the child he is working so hard to provide for?  I know with the internet the world is much smaller, but there is so much to be said for the daily interactions or "how was school", "do your homework", "tuck me in", "I love you", etc...  

I suspect there are many other employees at my local grocery store and elsewhere who are doing the same thing and making the huge sacrifice of not living near their families.    It's so sad, but I bet they consider themselves the lucky ones because they can provide for their families back home.