Gwangju Writes: Dear Mother, We Write to You from Under the Stars

Dear Mother, We Write to You from Under the Stars

By Grace (Yeonwoo) Ryoo

Dear Mother,

We have arrived. After a seemingly never-ending journey with numerous difficulties, we have arrived at our destination. Just one careless mistake might have spelled the failure of the whole journey, and yet we have made it to the end. It was worth it.

It has been almost a year since we settled here. It is beautiful. Mountains rise along the horizon, rivers run down from them and form crystal, glassy lakes, and millions of stars shine in a sky that glows violet at dusk. The whole place is filled with life, just as we hoped. The plants and trees here are similar to home, Mother. Outside where we stay, there are fields of lavendercolored flowers. Even their aroma is similar. So, we sit under the stars and look out at the lavender fields, dreaming of home. We let the sweet scent of nostalgia take us back to you.

We made a house out of the wood we found here, like the old times. It is sort of a cultural thing. But do not worry, Mother. Man knows his blessings. We understand now about life and about nature. Man now holds in his hands both the power to destroy and protect life. Before, we might have realized our mistakes too late, but never again shall we make such mistakes. For we now know the true purpose of humankind’s abilities. Before, we cut down forests and chased wildlife out of them. Now, we nurture the forests and welcome life into them. Before, we poisoned the very air we breathed and the water we drank. Now, we preserve the astonishingly clear air and water found here. Before, we feasted on animals and used them to make medicine. Now, they walk alongside us as fellow neighbors, and we make medicines for them. And we try to keep in mind what consequences each of our actions may bring.

The small wooden house sits on the plains. No one actually lives there, of course – not when we have The City, where it is much safer and more comfortable. But that house is like a historical monument. Humanity’s first “home” on another planet.

Mother, I guess we are like children who have finally moved out of their parents’ house. But we would also like to return to you someday. When the time comes. Until then, be safe and be healthy, Mother. We love you, Mother Earth.

The Author

Grace (Yeonwoo) Ryoo is a college student majoring in global affairs. She volunteered to translate articles for the GIC for three years in high school. In her spare time, she likes to read, draw, write, and take pictures. She also likes to imagine and look at the world from a different point of view. Instagram: @grace_ryoo