Transition in my Life I

Times of transition can be the most strenuous. After living in South Korea for more than six years, it was time for me to go home (Bhutan) for good. It was a bittersweet experience, and I started to lose my self-confidence. Firstly, I did not know where I belonged. Secondly, I had no life plans whatsoever. Even after having a master's degree, I felt like I am underqualified for any kind of job. Thus, for about half a year, I babysat my new nephew. Many would think that I have wasted my life because there was no monetary gain in this line of work. However, from all my experiences in my life, I can tell for sure that babysitting my nephew was the most learning experience ever in my life. From day one since my nephew came into this world, I had my full-time job. Here is a poem that I wrote for me before I left Bhutan for my new life in East Bay. The poem reflects what my nephew Haneul has taught me even before he turned one.

I never gave birth but I am a mother

You taught me how to cry 

People cry when they are happy 

You taught me about pain

That its best friend is joy

You taught me how to laugh

With your wordless innocent acts

You taught me how to smile

By smiling back at me

You taught me to be patient 

as if you knew everyone has a different pace

You taught me to be impatient 

Otherwise, we will be robbed of our time

You taught me to step back

So that I can see the whole universe 

You taught me to see with eyes closed

Not everything in life is visible to the eyes

With unspoken words

Its as if you talk to me 

"Aunt, did you lose a friend?

Don't worry! He will come back as a baby!"

You comfort me

You are the greatest present to me

You taught me what love is

It is sweet, pure, and wordless sensation

I never gave birth 

But I have a son

The day you were born to my sister 

I too turned into a mother 

- Your happy aunt, Chimi