KASHMIRA BHARDA-IRANI

Having been through the resettlement process a couple of times myself, albeit for entirely different reasons, I can relate to some of the difficulties faced by families relocating here. I realise these problems are compounded for families forced into a transition by circumstances beyond their control, so I wanted to pass on the support I received and the benefits of my experience to help ease their transition towards a happy life here in Australia.

My family comes from an Afghani background; they spent a number of years in Pakistan before they came here and have imbibed a lot of that culture as well. With five kids at home ranging from ages 12 to 20, and a number of health problems to contend with, mum and dad have their hands full; but are always smiling and gracious and very nurturing - and the kids have taken that on board and always look out for each other and their parents as well.

I think it's the relationship between dad and the youngest son that I find very touching to watch. He functions as dad's interpreter and voice to the outside world (and a very bubbly and enthusiastic one at that) - and he realises that dad is generally very dependant on him for that. Yet, for a 12 year old he goes about it in a very insightful way - and knows when to let dad be dad. I think dad realises this and is very appreciative - and the affection between them is almost palpable.

The kids love Australia and have settled in very well. The parents too are happy to be here after everything they've been through; though English is still a hurdle which they are negotiating through diligently going for their English classes; and the children who are quite fluent in English are always on hand to help them.

As we touch upon some of the hardships they've encountered in the past in the course of our visits together, I have learned to value more deeply a lot of what I've always taken for granted. I feel overwhelmed by the strength and resilience of my family; especially when I find myself mulling over some inconsequential problem at the end of the day; and think about the upheavals they have gone through and the grace with which they face them.

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