Seoul

where my soul heals

If perfect existed, that’s what I would call today. Today was perfect.

There wasn’t an extraordinary event, such as going to a famous amusement park or fancy restaurant. I met my older cousin, hung around at the Han River with my family, and drove back to Daejeon. These are all rather ordinary happenings, but the conversations had, emotions shared, and memories made resonated deeply inside me.

I have been in a weird state of mind recently due to our flight to the States being so soon. We leave Friday morning. I had not imagined this vacation to pass by so quickly. June left without a trace, hot July summer days came and went, and before I knew it, my remaining time in Korea was ending. I have visited Korea several times before. Still, it feels so different to leave this place this time, knowing that significant changes await me when I return to America—the most important one is entering college.

I have countless fears and doubts about beginning this new chapter, but gratefully, the conversations I shared with my cousin today distilled many of those worries. As someone who had just concluded her first semester at university, my older cousin shared personal stories, meaningful advice, and genuine thoughts on this next transitional step in life. Not only did I value her sharing her thoughts openly with me, but I also found great comfort in knowing that someone had felt and experienced the same flow of emotions as me. It was one of those intimate, raw conversations where I could genuinely feel my soul being healed and touched. Once again, I realize just how thankful I am for the people around me, this community that graciously pours love into me. With their encouragement and support, I rediscover the strength to keep my eyes and head above the waves, to continue swimming forward.

Another perfect moment occurred later in the day at the Han River. My parents and I were waiting to pick up my brother, and that hour we spent there felt like a dream. The sight of the calm river right in front of us, the sound of people biking, walking, and talking, and the brush of the slight breeze against our hair all worked to create the most relaxing atmosphere. Sitting down on a park bench by the river with my parents on each side of me—the littlest moments carry the greatest joy. At that moment, there was not a single thought in my mind. It was just me and the Han River, which seemed endless; me and my dad, who threw bread to the hungry pigeons; me and my mom, who took selfies with me happily. At that moment, I wished with all my might that time would freeze. I had never wanted so desperately for forever to be true.

Seoul will always remain a city difficult to grasp with words. A place I find myself wanting to return to over and over again. Thankful for the good it has gifted me with, I am sure these memories will linger by my side for a long while. This city allowed space for my imperfect soul to find peaceful rest, and for that, today was sincerely perfect.