Every time I look at my shoes,

I remember the first part of my life.

My life that was filled with obstacles.

I wore  these loafers—brown, leather—in different countries.

They experienced lots of challenges to be

where I am.

Before I got them, I had

to look at my parents’ shoes and learn

from them about life experiences,

and how to reach the summit.  

When I look at my shoes, I remember

myself in the airport saying goodbye

to the man who raised me since I was

a kid, and the country that surrounded me

with love.

My foot size is bigger now.

Although I need to buy new

shoes to fit my big feet, I will keep

my old shoes—they will remind me of the vivid

stories I will never forget until the end of my journey.