Do you feel lonely as a translator - Part 4

She was gone. She had passed away. The reality of her death haunted me every day,

and the pain was unbearable. I missed her terribly (I still do!). It felt as if there was no

longer any reason to get out of bed. Despite needing to care for my parents, I felt an

inner numbness. I yearned to escape to a place devoid of memories, where her

presence wouldn’t linger in the clothes, smells, or food. But such a place proved

inexistent.

As the months passed, I found myself one morning in bed, aimlessly scrolling

through my phone. My eyes, blurred with tears, stumbled upon an advertisement

about a translation mentorship. Intrigued, I read through the details and considered

the price. It seemed like a potential opportunity.

Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run

There's still time to change the road you're on

There were two paths before me: succumb to depression or find a new purpose.

Initially, the mentorship seemed straightforward, and I was filled with excitement. I

diligently studied the lessons and followed the advice given. Before I knew it, I was

translating various mock tests and using a CAT tool. I even created a profile on ProZ.

For a 65-year-old, I was doing quite well, or so I thought. Despite reaching out to

agencies and sending out my CV, I wasn’t getting any responses. Then, I came across

the words “pro bono service” on ProZ. I read about it and decided that this was what I

wanted to do, at least for the time being.

I joined the project and was greeted with a warm welcome email, inviting me to

participate in the project activities. I attended a weekly meeting (the Open House),

where I saw faces from all over the world on my computer screen. Everyone was

smiling, and a charismatic man led the conversation, asking questions and discussing

the project. We were divided into small groups for discussion. Time flew by, and when

the meeting ended, I realised I could have easily spent a few more hours with these

people. I eagerly awaited the next meeting.

Today, I am actively involved in the project, and I try not to miss any OHs.

I am engaged in my greatest passion, surrounded by people who motivate me.

I’m currently writing this blog and sharing a slice of my life with you.

The main purpose of this account is to express my gratitude.

It’s incredible how people can touch your life and your heart in ways they may never

realise. It’s a wonderful feeling to interact with them, even if it’s just through a

computer screen. I’ve come to think of them as friends, imagining their lives, their

struggles, and their joys. That’s why I enjoy our WhatsApp groups so much.

I am particularly grateful to Andrew, the charismatic man who inspires me with his

enthusiasm and passion. He has been a true mentor, guiding me to become not only

a better professional but also a better person.

My life has taken a new turn, and I now have plans for the future. I find the project

increasingly fulfilling, with many challenges. I have ideas and aspirations to improve

things, but above all, I want to make a difference in people’s lives. I hope I am making

a difference, even if it’s just a small one. I hope I have inspired you to join this amazing

team of volunteers!

I wish I could tell my parents how proud and happy I am to be a translator. Yes, I may

be confined to my room at times, but I am not alone. I do not feel lonely with all of

you keeping me company. My sister is with me, and the wind continues to blow. One

day, we will meet again.

And as we wind on down the road

Our shadows taller than our soul

There walks a lady we all know

Who shines white light and wants to show

How everything still turns to gold

And if you listen very hard

The tune will come to you at last

When all are one, and one is all

To be a rock and not to roll

And she’s buying a stairway to heaven

I dedicate this account to the loving memory of my sister, Marinês.

Thank you so much for reading and for your kind comments, my friends!

Love and hugs,

Sílvia H Marin