By Joe Larano Jr.
Rain fell steadily as Arjay Pareja opened the doors of his bus at a stop in British Columbia. A student hurried aboard, followed by an office worker with a cup of coffee and an elderly woman carrying groceries. Arjay waited until everyone was safely seated before returning to traffic. Outside, headlights reflected on the wet pavement as the city awakened. For his passengers, it was another morning commute. For Arjay, it was another day of serving the community and providing for his family. Behind the wheel was a husband and father who understood that every journey, no matter how ordinary, could lead somewhere meaningful.
Before coming to Canada, Arjay worked as an accountant in a major commercial bank in Manila. His wife was a graphic artist at a prominent advertising agency, and both had established careers they could be proud of. Together, they raised four children, two boys and two girls, while dreaming of a future filled with greater opportunities. Four years ago, his wife and children arrived in Canada to begin a new chapter as a family. They knew that starting over would require adjustments, but the realities of settling in a new country brought their own challenges. There were bills to pay, children to guide, and a household to establish. Arjay understood that providing for his family meant making practical decisions, remaining open to opportunities, and working with his wife to build a stable future.
One rainy afternoon, Arjay noticed an elderly passenger struggling to board with a shopping trolley. He stopped safely, lowered the ramp, and waited until she was comfortably settled. At another stop, he helped a mother with a stroller while keeping an eye on the waiting passengers. These everyday encounters reminded him that his work involved more than following a schedule. People depended on him to get them safely to their destinations. The job demanded concentration, patience, courtesy, and sound judgment, especially during heavy traffic and difficult weather. He learned to anticipate road conditions, manage his time, and remain calm when unexpected delays occurred. Arjay took pride in being a dependable transit operator, knowing that his daily work was an important part of the community’s life.
On another day, traffic slowed unexpectedly near a busy intersection. A passenger worried about missing an appointment, while others glanced anxiously at their watches. Arjay calmly explained the delay and continued driving safely. When the bus finally reached her stop, the passenger thanked him for keeping everyone informed. He was reminded that every passenger had responsibilities and loved ones waiting, just as he did. His work connected people to their workplaces, schools, appointments, and homes. It was a public service he performed with care and professionalism.
Meanwhile, life at home was steadily improving. Their economic circumstances had become more stable, allowing the family to look ahead with greater confidence. His wife contributed her own talents and determination, while their children continued growing and discovering new opportunities. There were still household expenses, school activities, and busy family days, but Arjay found joy in their ordinary routines. After a long shift, listening to his children recount their day or talking with his wife about their plans made the effort worthwhile. Their progress came not from one dramatic achievement, but from working together and moving forward one day at a time.
At the end of his shift, Arjay parks the bus and heads home. The passengers have reached their destinations, and he, too, has a journey to complete. His experience as an accountant in Manila taught him discipline and accuracy. His work as a transit operator in Canada allows him to practise those same qualities while serving the public. Neither role defines his worth on its own. What matters is the commitment he brings to his work and the responsibilities he fulfils at home. For Arjay, success means earning an honest living, supporting his wife, and giving his four children the opportunity to build their own futures. Each morning, he takes his place behind the wheel. Each evening, he returns to the family that gives his journey its purpose. Between those two moments lies the quiet achievement of a Filipino immigrant who continues to move forward with dignity, determination, and hope. (Contact: jblarano@gmail.com)
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