The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 marked a turning point in the lives of millions, including mine. The war brought not just the sound of artillery but also the shattering of normalcy, displacing countless Ukrainians and forcing us to seek refuge far from the land we called home.

As the conflict escalated, the reality of our situation became stark. The once vibrant streets of our cities were now lined with the scars of war, and the air, once filled with the chatter of everyday life, carried the heavy silence of uncertainty. My family, like many others, faced the heart-wrenching decision to leave everything behind—our home, our memories, our history—in search of safety and a semblance of the life we once knew.

The dialogue that changed everything began on an ordinary day, under the shadow of war’s dark cloud. My father’s question about moving to another country seemed almost surreal amidst the chaos. Yet, as the days unfolded, it became clear that this was our only path forward.

The decision to move was fraught with a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement for a new beginning was tinged with the sorrow of leaving our homeland. The journey was arduous, a two-day odyssey that culminated in an eleven-hour flight to Seattle. Stepping onto American soil felt like stepping into a different world—a world where the language was unfamiliar, the climate was different, and the routines were not our own.

Settling in the United States was a Herculean task. Each challenge we faced, from finding a home to navigating the complexities of a new educational system, tested our resilience. But with each obstacle overcome, our resolve strengthened.

Leaving behind our friends, family, and the very essence of our Ukrainian identity transformed me. It was a test of resilience, demanding courage and adaptability. Yet, amidst the upheaval, I clung to the belief that every step forward was a step toward a brighter future.

My first day at a new school was a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Decisions about college, behavior, and identity loomed large, but with time, clarity emerged. I realized that the power to shape my destiny lay within me.

One vivid memory amidst the chaos was our family trip to Seattle. The city’s beauty, with its towering skyscrapers and enchanting Ferris wheel, left a lasting impression. As we savored ice cream in a quaint café, I knew that moment would become a treasured memory.

Through it all, I learned to embrace life’s unpredictability, to value what I have, and to strive for change when necessary. Friedrich Nietzsche’s words, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger,” resonated deeply. This experience has tested my strength, altered my perspective, and filled me with resilience.

Now, as I reflect on the twists and turns, the challenges and victories, I see how they have shaped me into who I am today—resilient, adaptable, and unwavering in the pursuit of my dreams. The echoes of change continue to reverberate through my life, each dialogue opening up infinite possibilities. And with each new day, I am reminded that the journey is not just about the destination, but about the transformation that occurs along the way.

© Yelyzaveta (Lisa). All rights reserved. If you are interested in quoting this story, contact the national team and we can put you in touch with the author’s teacher.