One lazy day of August 2019 as I was browsing my Facebook account, a post from Migrant Writers of Singapore (MWS) caught my attention. It said: “Submit your Story themed Life in Singapore by November 1, 2019.” I paused and reread the post. Interesting!

I told myself: I have written stories about myself already, though I know there’s more to tell. This time, let me write the readers a story that I know will catch their attention, something entertaining or intriguing. I had the story plot running in my mind already and was inspired to put the story into words. With all smiles and amazement whenever I see my fellow Migrant Domestic Workers (MDW), watching them in person or when I see their updates in social media accounts. Yes, the story would evolve into an MDW- her escapades on her day offs, her love of the clicks of the camera, wearing different outfits, striking different poses and flaunting her beauty in different expressions. On the dot of the deadline, I submitted my story to Migrant Writers of Singapore. Fingers crossed.

Months went by, and there were no signs that my story was chosen. So I let go of that. But then, in July 2020, I was added to the group chat of Migrant Story Writers team of Call and Response 2. I was so excited and at the same time, surprised! Why so? I had brushed off the thought of my story already and had told myself, better luck next time.

The day I had been waiting for had come! I couldn’t believe it but thanking God was the very first thing I did. I remember I was talking to my son and his best friend at that time who were both very happy for me. Another dream had come true.

In the book Call and Response 2, A Singapore Migrant Anthology, the migrant writers are paired up with Singaporean writers for their – stories and poems. The book was launched digitally ( because of the pandemic situation) last February 21, 2021.

In this book, several of my fellow HOME volunteers are also contributors. Kina Pitono- 28 Days story, Novia Arluma- Am I Wrong poem, Jo Ann Dumlao (yours truly)- Nuri in Her Wonderland story and Bhing Navato- In a Fine Country story. Bhing is also one of the editors for the poetry entries in the book.

I have my pen and paper in my hand, they are like the annexe of my mind. Writing allows me to express myself in words.

Jo Ann A. DumlaoMyVoice contributor

* The book Call and Response 2 is available at Books Actually, City Book Library, Epigram Bookshop, The Public Library *