I was stuck.
I could not for the life of me
magically learn to speak the language.
Their vocal chords sang
with the slightest of ease
as mine twisted and tangled
trying to imitate the sounds.
I was tired.
I didn't want to try again and
again to comprehend the unknown.
The culture looked alive
in tourists' eyes, but to me
assimilating was beyond
my weak capabilities.
I was alone.
I became my only friend that
would comfort the tears from my eyes.
I locked myself in my room
and sang to keep my dreams
alive, to let go of the sorrow,
to feel something good.
But I was optimistic.
I could not let myself down.
I had to break through the walls.
The only way that I knew
to get through it was
not around or over,
but through the dark.
I was hopeful.
I could only gain strength
from the depths of pain.
So I pierced their judgement
with a single glare of my eyes
and the whip of my actions.
I am Khun.
The stars shine for me now
and those dark days transformed me.
I am confident.
I am certain.
I am Khun.
