I am entering a new experience, a path I have just discovered through my journey with yoga: the Buddhist traditions. Through this practice, I have come to see many aspects of myself more clearly. I have realized that I have been suffering, and that much of this suffering has been silent and passed down from my parents, grandparents, and ancestors, rooted in the war-torn history of my country. My parents and grandparents were born and raised during times of war, and they also served as soldiers. I now see that the violence, hatred, fear, and sense of separation have deeply impacted my family and continue to live on within me. These sufferings come and go, sometimes quietly, sometimes more forcefully.

Thanks to Plum Village and its teachings, I have begun to truly experience myself, to recognize, embrace, and begin to heal the wounds I carry. The mindfulness practices shared there have helped me understand that these sufferings have existed in me in critical silence, carried unconsciously through generations, until the day I began practicing yoga and continued with the Buddhist path. Now, I am learning to look deeply into the roots of my suffering. At this point in my journey, I know that I am the one who must begin the healing, reconnecting myself and, through that, my family.

I hope you find your path!