Laos Clock

However, the wooden clock that once served as a tangible connection to these stories was missing, a haunting reminder of the impermanence of material objects. Yet, rather than allowing the absence of the clock to hinder my efforts, I decided to take action. I meticulously recreated the clock, ensuring it mirrored the original in both shape and spirit. Working with skilled artisans, I poured my heart into the project, envisioning how it would eventually stand proudly in my home, a testament to the legacy of my father and the stories he cherished. The new clock resonates with equal parts nostalgia and hope. Each tick reverberates with the echoes of my father's voice, sharing the history of our family, instilling pride in our heritage.

As I hang it on the wall, I imagine my children glancing at it, just as I did in my youth. I envision them gathering around, wide-eyed, as I share the tales of courage, loss, and resilience that my father once told me. I want them to know about the strength behind my parents' journey, the grace with which they navigated the challenges of war and migration, and the lessons embedded within every moment they survived. In moments of doubt or confusion, I hope this clock will serve as a beacon, reminding my children of the importance of understanding their past and embracing their identity. It isn't just about telling their story; it's about instilling the values of perseverance, hope, and love that my father exemplified throughout his life.

My father, a dedicated teacher and principal in Laos, was always passionate about imparting knowledge, not just in the classroom but at home as well. He shared stories of courage and perseverance, painting a vivid picture of his youth spent amidst conflict, hardship, and eventual displacement. Last year, I faced the profound sadness of losing my father. His passing has left an irreplaceable void in our lives, a silence that echoes through the halls of our memories. In those moments of grief, I clung fiercely to the lessons he imparted and the stories he shared. I wanted my children to know the reality of our family’s history, to understand the sacrifices made and the strength found within our lineage. I sought to weave the fabric of my father’s experiences into the consciousness of my own children, hoping to ignite in them a sense of belonging and identity.

Growing up, in my childhood home was a unique wooden clock, meticulously crafted in the shape of Laos. This clock was more than just a timepiece; it was a silent sentinel of my family's history, echoing the struggles and resilience of my parents. Each time I glanced at it, especially during the moments when I found myself on the receiving end of my father’s lectures, I was reminded of the weight of our legacy. Those lectures, often imbued with tales from the war, transformed that clock into a portal of understanding—one that bridged the gap between the innocence of childhood and the harsh realities of the world. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the significance of that clock. It wasn’t merely a decorative item in our home; it symbolized the trials my parents endured as they fled their homeland, carved out their lives in a new land, and built a future filled with hope for their children.

As I stand before the recreated clock, I am filled with a sense of closure, though the loss of my father will always linger. I feel a renewed commitment to carry forward the rich tapestry of our family’s narrative, to ensure that the trials and triumphs of our history are not lost. This clock, now restored, serves as a bridge between generations. It connects me with my father, binds our past to my children’s future, and reminds us that even in the face of adversity, time does not stand still. Instead, it continues to move forward, and so must we—armed with our stories, our resilience, and the deep understanding of what it means to carry our heritage within us.

In this way, I honor my father and the life lessons he imparted. I hope to inspire my children to embrace their identity while navigating their own journeys in the ever-changing landscape of the world around them. The clock now holds a place in our home, a cherished symbol of love and resilience— a reminder of where we come from, the struggles we've faced, and the strength within us to forge a path toward the future.