"Home" – a celestial question that has danced through the symphony of my existence. Across the tapestry of my life, I have scattered memories like stardust, leaving fragments of my soul in the landscapes of Russia, the alleys of Vietnam, and the embrace of the Netherlands. Each step, a poetic waltz with time, a chance to unfold the chapters of diverse cultures, and a melody of connections with people around the globe.
Yet, as the sun descends behind the mountain, and the moon engages in a celestial game of hide-and-seek among the clouds, I find myself on a bed, headphones enveloping me, pondering the elusive concept of belonging. Almost four years in the Netherlands, a hiatus from the embrace of Vietnam, and the revelation strikes – Vietnam, at 150%, is the North, at 200%, is Hanoi – my sacred abode.
Why? A question that weaves through the fabric of my being. Answers elude me, yet I discern the threads of language, culture, attitudes, food, friendships, and nature intertwining in the mosaic of my identity. In this haven, I shed masks; here, my soul finds a voice in the depths of my language; here, history is savored through the palate; here, each season becomes a poetic stanza, and here, my family anchors the very essence of existence.
When? Birth in Nam Dinh, Vietnam, a sojourn to Russia until 4.5, and the echoes of a distant connection linger. The canvas of Russia painted with snow, Red Square's vibrant red, and the muted gray of a former dwelling. A return to grandparents' love, laughter, and hugs – a cocoon where words fail to capture the ecstasy of childhood. Parents' return heralds a shift to a larger city, where Hanoi's people exude a chill vibe, wrapped in the sharpness of life's lessons. The soft wind-like language carries profound meaning beneath each sentence.
My time at home unfolds in this journey, where foggy decisions lead to self-growth in the Netherlands. In the cadence of life's grand symphony, I invite you, dear reader, to traverse the realms of my soul and wander through the landscapes of my home.
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