Before moving to the US, my family and I lived a happy life in Ukraine. I had many friends there, and I cherished the time we spent together, especially at our beloved church. Both my parents were born in Ukraine, so their lives were deeply rooted in our homeland.

But everything changed on February 24th at 5am when Russia attacked Ukraine. We were devastated, shocked, and overwhelmed by the events unfolding in our country. As the situation worsened, we lost everything we had. My dad had just started a new business, but the war forced us to abandon our plans. When the conflict erupted, he was supposed to send cars to Kyiv, but we had to flee instead.

We initially tried to move to Moldova on the same day the war began, but our plans were thwarted. Eventually, we made our way to Poland and then Bulgaria, hoping for safety and stability. However, after a month of uncertainty and displacement, we realized that returning to Ukraine was not an option.

It was then that we decided to move to the US, where my dad's brother had already settled. Our families moved together, seeking refuge and a fresh start. The decision was not easy, especially leaving behind our grandparents who chose to remain in Bulgaria, hoping to return to Ukraine once the situation improved. Their choice weighed heavily on my mind, shaping my perspective on safety, family, and the uncertainty of life.

The journey to the US changed me profoundly, both physically and mentally. The first few months were incredibly difficult as I grappled with the upheaval of leaving my homeland and starting anew in a foreign country. But with time, I realized the importance of building a life in America, knowing that the war in Ukraine could last indefinitely.

I began to understand the privilege of safety and security, recognizing how easily we overlook the suffering of others when we feel safe ourselves. This realization challenged me to empathize with those still enduring hardship in Ukraine and other conflict zones.

Despite the initial challenges, I found solace and belonging in the US. I made new friends, embraced new opportunities, and forged a sense of home in this foreign land. While I miss aspects of my life in Ukraine, I am grateful for the stability and support I have found here.

Every day, I thank God for the opportunity to live in the US and for the safety and security it provides. Though my journey has been marked by loss and upheaval, I have found resilience and hope in the promise of a better future.

As I reflect on my journey from Ukraine to the United States, I am reminded of the strength and resilience that carried my family through the darkest of times. We faced unimaginable challenges and heartbreaking loss, but we never lost hope. Instead, we made the courageous decision to start anew in a foreign land, seeking refuge and a chance at a better life. And although the road was difficult, filled with uncertainty and doubt, we pressed on with determination and faith.

Today, as I stand on the soil of my adopted home, I am filled with gratitude for the safety, security, and opportunities that America has provided. But my heart remains heavy for those still struggling in Ukraine and other conflict zones around the world.

As I look towards the future, I am filled with hope—not just for myself and my family, but for all those who dare to dream of a brighter tomorrow. For in the face of adversity, we discover the depth of our resilience and the power of our collective humanity.

© Mariya. 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.