May I introduce you to another side of me?

I am currently in West Africa for my charity work (INPN), and the following scene took place „at home“ (I prefer to live with my local friends).
Daddy called. Everyone was happy. I couldn’t help but take pictures of this beautiful moment (all permissions acquired, even though the faces are barely recognizable). They hadn’t seen their father/husband for the past two months. He had traveled to Europe—first illegally, now with legal status—to offer his family better prospects. The connection to his family was well maintained. The mother kept the father present in her life and in the lives of their children, even though they all missed him terribly. And he (video) calls his family regularly—practically every day.

This reminds me of another experience.
Madam L comes from Peru. She takes care of my elderly aunt and does an excellent job. We all love her.
She, too, left her family to work abroad and give them a better future. She misses her husband and two children, and they obviously miss her too.
They see each other only every two years. Mr. L calls her regularly to talk to the children. And she can call them anytime.
It made me think that parental bonds can be protected even under very difficult circumstances.

It is both a duty and a responsibility—
For the parent taking care of the children, by holding space in their heart for the absent parent.
For the absent parent, by remaining available and capable of staying connected to their partner and children.