As I sat on my porch, lost in my thoughts, my mind drifted back to my childhood memories in Pariang City. It was a place where I spent my early years surrounded by nature and fresh air. My childhood memories in Pariang City are still vivid, like yesterday. Reflecting on those days, I realize how much Pariang City shaped me into who I am today. As I reminisced, I remembered how much I loved the smell of the flowers surrounding our house. The aroma would fill our home, and we enjoyed it so much. The city was full of beautiful gardens, and the scent of fresh flowers and plants was intoxicating. The beauty of it was breathtaking, and I always knew that Pariang City would always be my first love of nature and life. I remember my parents were my guide to the world; through them, I could experience Pariang City to the fullest. Every day, we would walk for about 15 to 20 minutes to the marketplace, where we would encounter people from all over rural areas. The lively atmosphere of the market and the people always left me in awe. As I sat there, lost in my thoughts, I wondered how my life would have been if I had never experienced Pariang City. Would I still be the same person I am today? Would I have the same love for nature and life itself? These were questions that I couldn’t answer, but one thing was for sure: Pariang City had given me hope, a path, and an internal map of the world. As the sun set, I realized that my memories of Pariang City would never fade. It was a place that would always hold a special place in my heart. And with that, I closed my eyes and silently thanked my parents for allowing me to experience such a magical place. My childhood memories in Pariang City will always be with me, and the city I will miss forever. And so, as I close my eyes and let the memories of Pariang City wash over me, I know I will always carry a piece of it wherever I go. Pariang City is my first love of nature and life and a reminder of the beauty and magic in this world. Pariang was a place of bustling activity, where people from far and wide came to buy and sell goods, trade livestock, and seek justice for their social and civil woes. It was a hub of activity, with courthouses and the center of an appeal drawing in visitors from around the rural areas. And for me, it was home. Growing up in Pariang was a unique experience. As the youngest of five boys, I was surrounded by family within and beyond the city limits. But as I grew older, unexpected events beyond my control would shape my future. My third brother, Monoluk Deng, was killed in the Sudan civil war. It was a devastating loss for our family and the community at large. Years later, the memory of his death lingers in my mind. But despite the darkness that accompanied that tragedy, my memories of Pariang remain bright and vivid. I think about the crowded marketplace, the sound of cattle blowing, and the scent of spices and herbs wafting through the air. And even more than that, I remember the love that surrounded me, the warmth of my family, and the bonds that tie us together. Looking back, I realize just how much Pariang shaped me. It taught me the value of community, the importance of justice, and the power of love. And though I’ve moved on to new places and experiences, I always carry those lessons. Pariang will always be a part of me, where my memories and heart are. As a child growing up in the rural village of Pariang, food was always a scarcity. Only during July would people experience a little less severe food shortage. But despite the struggle to get meals on the table, I found solace in my education. Pariang Primary School was my sanctuary. It was a boarding school, and everything was provided for us there, including food. But as a curious child, I often ventured out of the school compound to explore a nearby town. The smell of onions and oil filled the air, and every student I passed wore the same uniform. It was an exciting world outside the walls of my school, one that I longed to explore more.Unfortunately, war broke out, and everything changed. It forced me to leave my birthplace at the beginning of 1985. The move was not voluntary, but it was necessary for my safety. My world was turned upside down, and I had to adjust to a new life in a new city. The weather in the city was vastly different from what I was accustomed to. December was hot, and the air was thick with humidity. But despite the challenges, I found a way to adapt. I continued to pursue my education and slowly but, indeed, made new friends. While the move was difficult, Reflecting on my journey, I realize that my challenges helped shape me into who I am today. My experiences have given me a unique perspective on life, allowing me to appreciate every little moment. While my journey has been difficult, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

And as I sit here reflecting on my past, I can’t help but wonder what life would have been like had I not been forced to leave my birthplace. But one thing is sure: my journey has taught me that sometimes unexpected paths lead to extraordinary destinations. After I went to North Sudan, I couldn’t help but wonder what the future held for this village. Would it continue to thrive, or would it fade away into obscurity? Pariang will always be in my heart.