Chap 4: The Village of Memories

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Tae's eyes gazed out the car window as the bustling city gave way to rolling hills and lush green fields. He was headed to his hometown, a small village nestled in the heart of the countryside. A place he had once called home, but had fled in pursuit of fame and fortune.
Now, with his world crumbling around him, Tae sought solace in the one person who had always understood him - his grandmother. Halmoni, as he affectionately called her, was the epitome of wisdom and kindness. Her warm embrace and gentle words had a way of soothing his soul.
As the car stopped at the village station, Tae's heart raced with a mix of emotions. He had been away for so long, chasing his dreams, and yet, he felt like a failure. The weight of his doubts and fears threatened to crush him.
With a deep breath, Tae stepped off the car and onto the familiar soil of his childhood cause the house of his grandmother was in small streets and his big jeep car couldn't go there. The village was just as he remembered it - quaint, peaceful, and full of memories. He made his way through the winding streets, passing by the old tree where he used to play, the market where he used to buy sweets, and the temple where his Halmoni used to pray.

Finally, he arrived at his grandmother's cozy little house, surrounded by lush gardens and the soothing sound of a gentle stream. Tae's heart swelled with love and gratitude as he knocked on the door, hoping to find the comfort and guidance he so desperately needed.
"Tae, my child, it's so good to see you!" Halmoni exclaimed, opening the door wide enough to envelop him in a warm hug. "Come in, come in! I've made your favorite dish - kimchi stew!" Tae smiled, feeling a sense of comfort wash over him as he entered the cozy home. "Halmoni, you always know how to make me feel better."

As they sat down at the table, Halmoni noticed the worry lines etched on Tae's face. "What's troubling you, Tae? You look like you've lost your last won."
Tae sighed, taking a spoonful of the spicy stew. "Halmoni, I feel like I've lost my way. I thought becoming a K-pop idol would bring me happiness, but it's only brought me stress and anxiety. And now, I'm starting to doubt my talent and purpose."
Halmoni listened attentively, her eyes filled with compassion. "Tae, my child, you've always had a beautiful voice and a passion for music. Don't let the opinions of others define your worth. What's important is that you stay true to yourself and your art."

Tae looked up, his eyes searching for answers. "But what if I'm not good enough, Halmoni? What if I fail?" Halmoni reached out and took Tae's hand in hers. "Failure is not the end, Tae. It's an opportunity to learn and grow. And remember, success is not just about achieving fame or fortune; it's about living a life that's true to who you are."
Tae felt a lump form in his throat as he looked at his grandmother, her words of wisdom and love piercing his heart.
"Tae, my child, do you know who you are?". Halmoni said gently.
"Who I am...really?" Said tae pausing, looking confused he trails off, unsure.
"Yes, Tae. Who are you, deep down? What makes you, you?" Halmoni nodding encouragingly.
"I...I'm a K-pop idol...a singer...a performer..." Taehyung said hesitantly he lists his roles, but his voice lacks conviction.
"Those are what you do, Tae. But who are you, beyond the stage and the spotlight?" Halmoni said softly.
"I...I don't know, Halmoni. I've been trying to figure it out, but...I just don't know." Now taehyung was looking lost.
"That's okay, Tae. Discovering who you are takes time. But remember, your true self is beneath the layers of expectations and roles. Keep searching, and you'll find your way." Halmoni said plastering a warm smile on her face.
Tae nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. He knew he had a long journey ahead, but with Halmoni's guidance, he was ready to uncover his true self.
"I'm feeling a bit relaxed by your words" taehyung said.
Halmoni smiled, patting his hand. "That's what grandmothers are for, dear. Now, finish your stew and let's talk more about your dreams and aspirations. I want to hear all about it."
After his conversation with Halmoni, Tae decided to explore the garden, seeking solace in nature. The vibrant flowers and gentle rustle of leaves calmed his mind, and he felt a sense of peace wash over him.
As he wandered through the garden, Tae stumbled upon a small pond, its surface reflecting the beauty of the surrounding flowers. He sat down on a nearby bench, taking a deep breath and letting the serenity of the moment envelop him.Suddenly, a gentle breeze rustled the leaves, and a small flower petal fell onto the pond's surface. Tae watched as it floated away, carrying his worries with it. He felt a sense of release, as if the petal had taken his burdens away. Inspired by the moment, Tae pulled out his phone and began to compose a melody, the notes reflecting the beauty and tranquility of the garden. The music flowed from his heart, a symphony of hope and renewal.

~"In the gentle breeze, a petal fell

Carrying my worries, it drifted so well

On the water's surface, it floated away

Leaving me with peace, at the end of the day~

~Like the petal, my heart was free

Drifting on the wind, wild and carefree

No longer weighed down, by the chains of my mind

I'm floating on the breeze, leaving my fears behind~

~In the beauty of nature, I find my way

A reflection of hope, in every single day

Just like the petal, I'll let go and be free

And find my peace, in the serenity"~

Tae sat back on the bench, gazing at the pond as the sun began to set. He felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing he had poured his heart into the lyrics. As he reflected on the words, he began to talk to himself.
(whispering):  "You did it, Tae. You finally let go."
(sighs):  "But what if it's not enough? What if I'm still stuck in this darkness?"
(firmly):  "No, Tae. You're not alone. You have your music, your grandmother's wisdom, and your own strength. You'll get through this."
(softly):  "I miss Lina...I miss the way she made me feel."
(gently):  "I know, Tae. But you can't keep holding onto the past. You have to keep moving forward, one step at a time."
(determined): "You're right. I'll keep writing, keep singing, and keep healing. I won't let my struggles define me."
As the stars began to twinkle above, Tae felt a sense of peace settle over him. He knew he still had a long way to go, but he was ready to face his demons head-on, armed with his music and his newfound determination.

Tae walked back into the house, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. He found Halmoni sitting in the living room, her eyes closed as if in meditation. He approached her quietly and sat down beside her.
"Tae, my child, how are you feeling?". Opening her eyes Halmoni said.
"I'm feeling better, Halmoni. I wrote some lyrics. I think I'm starting to understand myself better." Taehyung said smiling 
"That's wonderful, Tae. Self-reflection is a powerful tool. Remember, healing is a journey, not a destination." Nodding halmoni said
"Thank you, Halmoni. Your wisdom always guides me. I think I need a change of scenery tomorrow, so I'll visit the village and freshen up." Taehyung said being gratefully or pretending to be grateful.
"Ah, that's a great idea! The village will do you good. Remember to breathe in the fresh air and listen to the stories of the elders. They have much to teach you." Halmoni said smiling.
 "I will, Halmoni! I'll make sure to share my experiences with you when I get back." Taehyung said being excited hoping he will change back to his previous life.
"I look forward to it, Tae. Now, get some rest. Tomorrow is a new day full of possibilities." Halmoni said laughing. 

Tae nodded and hugged Halmoni before heading to his room, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation for his village visit. Little did he knew tomorrow he will gonna disappoint his this excitement of hope, his Halmoni and himself.


What he's gonna do tomorrow?🤔
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Allah Hafiz ✨

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