by Anh Nguyen
They told me to go to university and be a doctor
So I can make a lot of money and make my parents proud
Like a lifeless doll that sits wherever they place it.
They told me that I would never be rich.
They stabbed my heart with their words
Like a piece of meat chopped up by a dozen knives.
They told me to be a good girl and stop dreaming.
I have to learn to be a good daughter, a good wife, and a good mother
Like my dearly loved mother.
They told me that I would never achieve my ambitious dream
Because I don’t have talent
Like an ant that wants to fly to reach the clouds.
DO IT! PLEASE DO IT! I HAVE TO DO IT!
The voice in my head screamed in despair.
The flame in my heart burnt as brilliant as the stars of a million galaxies.
I covered my ears, closed my eyes, and took a step on the perilous journey.
And now I’m on the stage,
Standing next to the top pianist in the world.
My smile shines at the audience,
and my eyes sparkle with tears.
I am a bright shining jewel.
They told me they knew best.
I told them, My fate is in my hands,
Not yours.
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