Even a word can be a lot

You may be curious about my journey to Germany. After five years of waiting, we had given up hope of reuniting with my father in Germany. However, a German friend of my father’s came to our aid. A week after relinquishing hope, we received notification that we were finally cleared to fly to Germany. This was a remarkable and transformative development for us.

Upon our initial arrival at the German airport, we were warmly received by my father and several other individuals who had supported him during his time in Germany. We experienced a mix of excitement, elation, and trepidation, as I was reluctant to restart everything from scratch. The initial transition had not been simple for me, and now I had to acclimate to a new life, culture, language, and community. It felt as though history was repeating itself. Thanks to my parents and siblings, I found the ability to smile. Every moment spent with them was the most joyful time throughout my arduous journey.

Regrettably, immediately after our arrival in Germany, the focus turned to Coronavirus. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, certain aspects of my life were adversely affected. We endured a two-year lockdown, during which only virtual classes were conducted, resulting in a complete absence of in-person interactions, social gatherings with friends, and limited familiarity with the physical appearances of our own classmates.

Upon resuming in-person classes in the 9th grade, we were still required to don face masks. Concealing my visage with a mask noticeably undermined my self-esteem. Even after the mask mandate was lifted, I continued to wear one, as I could not muster the confidence to appear without it. Consequently, my self-assurance waned, and I became increasingly introverted. Despite the kindness shown towards me by everyone, I was cognizant that it was primarily due to my academic proficiency. I consistently endeavored to excel in both my scholastic pursuits and ethical conduct. Whenever the teacher urged me to vocalize my thoughts, amplify my voice, and foster greater communication, I found it to be an arduous endeavor.

This was no easy feat, and I recognized that students of my age were grappling with similar challenges. The only sentiment I could express was one of gratitude for what I possessed and a commitment to refrain from coveting what others had, as I was mindful that everyone faced their own battles. It doesn’t matter the nature or cause of one’s struggles; some reasons may not carry as much weight for others, yet that’s immaterial. Each person harbors unique emotions and sentiments. Given this, we should refrain from passing judgment on others, as their inner emotional state remains inscrutable. A single remark has the potential to significantly impact someone’s world, and verbal abuse can sometimes inflict more harm than physical violence.