Mr. Ravi Kumar, my favourite English teacher, was a towering figure of passion and intellect. His booming voice brought Shakespeare to life, and his kind eyes saw potential in every student. I was a quiet writer, hesitant to share my work, but he noticed my talent. With his encouragement, I began to speak up and share my stories. One day, he wrote in my essay, “Shangkari, your words can move mountains.” His belief in me ignited my confidence, making me realise the power of my voice and sparking a lifelong love for literature and storytelling.
My friends might describe me as a kind and gentle soul, always considerate of others’ feelings. As an introvert, I might prefer deep, meaningful conversations over large gatherings, making our friendships feel special and authentic. They’d say you have a calming presence, often listening more than you speak, and you’re great at offering support when needed. Your thoughtfulness shines through in your actions, whether it’s through small gestures or being there during tough times. Overall, they’d see me as a caring individual who values genuine connections and brings warmth to every interaction.
The lesson I learned the hard way is to be an independent woman, a journey shaped by trials and triumphs. I once sought validation from others, only to discover that true strength lies within. Each setback became a stepping stone, teaching me the power of self-reliance. I learned to trust my instincts, chase my dreams, and stand tall in my choices. With every challenge, I embraced my uniqueness and cultivated resilience. Independence is not just freedom. It’s the ability to write my own story, paint my own future, and dance to my own rhythm, unapologetically and fiercely.
If I could control one thing, it would be the power of imagination. With this ability, I would unlock the creativity within everyone, turning mundane moments into vibrant adventures. Picture a world where dreams shape reality, cities made of laughter, forests of inspiration, and rivers flowing with ideas. I would inspire people to envision their possibilities, bridging gaps between cultures and generations through shared stories. In this realm, every challenge becomes a canvas for innovation, and every person a creator. By harnessing imagination, we could transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, igniting a collective spark that lights up the world.
Balashangkari Muniandy, Sungai Petani.
