Leaving my homeland was a bittersweet moment. As I boarded the plane bound for the USA with my dad, the farewells of my family echoed in my mind, bringing tears to my eyes. I couldn't help but reminisce about the joyous times we shared back home – the laughter, the love, and the sense of togetherness. It was hard to fathom that I was embarking on a journey that would take me thousands of miles away from everything familiar.

During my time in Nepal, life was an adventure filled with laughter and camaraderie. Saturdays were for exploring the majestic Rara River with my friends, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and the soothing melodies of nature. We reveled in motorcycle rides through winding paths, relishing the freedom of the open road. Even the simplest joys, like playing in the snow and savoring traditional Nepali cuisine, held a special place in my heart.

However, amidst the joy, there were challenges – moments when my parents urged me to stay close to home, restricting my freedom to explore. Yet, despite these obstacles, I held onto my dreams. I shared with my friends my aspiration to join the Army, inspired by the courage and discipline of those in uniform. When the opportunity to move to the USA presented itself, my friends celebrated my success, albeit tinged with sadness at our impending separation. Their words of encouragement and support echoed in my mind as I embarked on a new chapter of my life.

Upon enrolling at Thomas Jefferson High School in the USA, I found solace in the company of fellow Nepali students, even though they were older than me. Though I missed the familiar faces of my friends back home, I immersed myself in my studies, determined to excel academically. Despite the initial challenges of adjusting to a new environment and culture, I persevered, earning commendable grades in my classes.

Reflecting on my upbringing in Nepal, I cherish the memories of my village community – the laughter of my siblings, the warmth of our neighbors, and the bonds that tied us together. Though we eventually relocated to a new home, the love we shared for our old house remained steadfast, a testament to the memories we created there.

In essence, my journey has been one of resilience and growth. Despite the uncertainties and challenges I've faced along the way; I've learned to embrace change and adapt to new circumstances. As I continue to navigate life's twists and turns, I carry with me the lessons learned from my homeland – the importance of family, the value of friendship, and the resilience to overcome adversity. And though I may be far from the place I once called home, the spirit of my village remains alive within me, guiding me forward on my path to success.

© Dharamdhoj. 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.