The Courage of Children: Boston and Beyond XXX

M. Erdene-Od
G. Davaajav, Teacher
Erdemiin Urgoo Consolidated School, Bulgan Province, Mongolia
I think everyone has a story of courage in their lives. I have my stories. Not
one, but many. However, I want to write about one particular story of courage
that I needed in order to grow and experience in my life. This happened two
years ago. One summer, my beloved grandma died. I was truly saddened by
this event. It was unbelievable and very sad to think my lovely grandma was no
longer alive and with us.
I was sent to stay with my grandpa and be with him during this difficult time.
My mission was to comfort and be a companion for him. Being and living
in a herder’s home was such a challenge for me, not to mention the sadness
and grief my grandpa and I were going through. In the beginning there were
people tending to my grandpa from other places to express their condolences.
Eventually they all left. My grandpa and I stood outside and waved at the
guests as they disappeared. This was very sad and lonely. In the middle of
nowhere, with different animals, just me and grandpa. What a life!
I was not skilled at herding. At first it was very hard. I was homesick, and
missed my mama. There were times when I was not good at herding jobs, and
grandpa was cross with me. I would just want to leave and go to my mama.
But how could I refuse my mama who wanted me to be there to give my hand
and heart for my grieving grandpapa? I remember when my grandmama was
alive, the home of my grandparents was warm, cozy and loving. Now, it’s not.
It is cold and sad. There’s so much to do from the rising of the sun to the
sunset. I would work all day and be extremely tired. At this time in my life, I
needed so much strength, patience, and courage.
This was truly one of my courageous moments of life. These hardships
required so much courage. When I first landed there, I didn’t know how
to even boil liters of milk. Now, I can milk the cows, cut the wool of sheep,
and tend to the sheep and goats. I learned so many skills. I learned to work
fast and hard. I am so thankful for this moment of my life, and that it was
so challenging. These challenges made me a better person, and taught me
work skills and character traits that I will always use in the future. I learned
to appreciate the hard work and culture of my nomadic heritage. I want
to be someone who can also teach my children and future generations to
learn, appreciate, and preserve the thousands of years of nomadic culture
and lifestyles of my country. This lesson of courage taught me a lot of good
things…..to carry on….
The Courage of Children: Boston and Beyond
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