By George Isoaimo

Port Moresby, PNG, 24 October 2024 -- In 2003, I began teaching at Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu. It has now been 21 years that I have been serving as a Salesian educator. Teaching has always come with its struggles, but at the end of each day, I am happy. Talking to the boys, mingling with them, laughing together, and accompanying them is what I love best. I chose the teaching profession because I wanted to stay with young people and help them.

Don Bosco’s purpose in life was revealed to him at a very young age in his "Dream at Nine Years of Age," though it wasn’t clear to him at the time. Similarly, I have seen God’s hand guiding me in finding my life’s purpose. It wasn’t easy, and I didn’t do it alone. I spoke with my Salesian mentors and the FMA sisters. I spent many hours in prayer and discernment, gradually realizing where I felt the happiest. Over time, I understood that it was no longer my own plan but God’s plan at work in my life. I now live the dream of Don Bosco, shepherding young people just as I was shepherded in my youth. I’ve learned that while our dreams belong to us, they must align with God’s dream for us if we want to lead a good and meaningful life.

At the beginning of 2021, I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Both my kidneys had reduced function, leaving me with two options: undergo a kidney transplant or remain on dialysis for life. During a seven-week stay at Port Moresby General Hospital, I gave immense stress to my wife, children, and siblings. Yet, they never left my side. Amidst all the turmoil, I tried to reassure my family that all would be well. I didn’t fully understand what was happening, but I decided to stay as positive as possible. Despite the painful procedures, I smiled through the pain. There were moments when I cried, but I remained determined to keep a positive mindset.

While lying on my bed, I made three decisions. First, to stay positive. Second, to never stop praying the rosary. I have prayed the rosary since childhood, and the Blessed Mother has never disappointed me. Third, I chose to offer every medical procedure for the souls in purgatory. I have held on to these decisions throughout the years of my illness.

The Holy Eucharist is God’s food for you and me. Whenever I was hospitalized, I couldn’t eat. I would vomit any food I took, except for the most important food: the Holy Eucharist. Each time I received Holy Communion, I felt an inner peace and knew I was completely in God’s hands. The love of God was present in the Eucharist, and I was overwhelmed when I saw my former students visiting me. These visits uplifted my spirit, and I knew God’s love was manifesting through these boys. I cannot thank God enough for sending them—whether professionals, military personnel, or office bosses - they were all Bosconians. The religious sisters and Salesians were also frequent visitors, as were my colleagues from DBTS and friends from the community. Their visits were constant reminders of God’s care and love for me.

Currently, I undergo dialysis three times a week at the PNG Kidney Foundation. I am grateful to all the students and staff who have supported me through their prayers. I believe I am still on this journey of life because of the prayers of those around me. They haven’t stopped praying for me. Fr. Rector also suggested I ask for the intercession of Mamma Margaret, since I am a Salesian Cooperator. Prayer has always been a big part of my life, but only now, in this dire situation, have I truly become convinced of its power.

Despite my illness, I have never lost focus on what I want to do: serve the young. This sickness has never deterred me from that focus. While I no longer do much in the school, I continue to be present for the boys - listening to them, offering advice, and staying by their side. I also spend time with young teachers, encouraging them and sharing how best to apply Don Bosco’s Preventive System.

I don’t know how long I will live on this earth. I don’t know what the future holds. But I entrust my entire life - whatever happens today and beyond - to God and Mama Mary. I walk each day, step by step, thanking God for the life He has given me.

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