Arn Chorn-Pond Reflection

Arn Chorn-Pond's presentation was incredibly enlightening. He was a child soldier who survived the Cambodian genocide because of his talent and love for music. Pond reflected upon his childhood during his presentation, noting how he listened to music and ate ice cream with his siblings. The stark contrast between the imagery he included of himself enjoying ice cream with his little sister and watching her starve years later was a jarring depiction of what he had been through. Pond escaped his role as a child soldier by running into the forest until he reached a refugee camp. He talked about stormy nights and food shortages, but ultimately ended on a humble and inspiring note. Pond endured high school in America, where he was bullied until he became a star soccer player. He discussed all of the atrocities in his life, but also noted the positive aspects, including his adoptive father and his persistent love for music. Overall, Arn Chorn-Pond's visit allowed me to reflect on the simple moments in life that I must not take for granted and reminded me to put my struggles in perspective.