Healing Through Art: A Journey Beyond Pain

Healing Through Art: A Journey Beyond Pain

I have been hurt by harsh words from people I loved. Why did they say such things in those moments? I invited some elders with heartfelt excitement and longing, hoping to show them my life in America. But one of them looked around and said, "So you're wasting your life here."

She often planted sharp thorns in people’s hearts with her words. It became so common that no one questioned it anymore. Every time she opened her mouth, someone ended up wounded. One day, I realized I could no longer face her directly. It was a natural response. But even as time passed, the contrast between my sincere intentions and her cold reaction continued to sadden me. I was hurt because I offered warmth, and what I received was dismissal and disdain.

This is only one example. Throughout life, we encounter people whose twisted minds and words clash painfully with our hearts. Sometimes, living with kindness feels like a disadvantage in a world that distorts everything. Such people, after twisting every situation, turn and say, “You’re the one with a twisted mind.”

Over time, I began to see the truth. I came to understand who was really distorting reality. I began to feel pity for her. Her life—one that caused pain while constantly positioning herself as the victim—offered me a powerful lesson.

We are all imperfect. Anyone can unintentionally hurt others. Actions driven by fear and insecurity can leave scars. But within that pain, if we communicate sincerely, we can move toward healing. Unfortunately, the world isn’t always open to this. It divides people into right and wrong and refuses to hear voices outside the accepted “truth.” In a world obsessed with competition and achievement, real connection is rare, and so everyone gets hurt.

That’s why I believe in art. Art has the power to cool down this overheated world. Today, I looked at one of my paintings—a piece that missed the exhibition deadline. It featured a vivid red flower standing tall in the wind and rain. Despite the storm, it danced like a shaman, unwavering in its beauty.

Through this painting, I found deep comfort. Why had I been painting to show others? I should have painted for myself. This flower, like me, holds a beautiful and empathetic spirit, even after being battered by life. I realized I must not let myself be broken.

If you are reading this and feel too wounded by the world’s cruelty and distorted language to continue, I hope you will look at this flower with me. See it. Your beauty cannot be broken. No matter how much others try to cover you with dirt, you are still a flower. The storm will wash you clean, and your brilliance will shine even more.
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Believe in yourself. The cruel words and warped messages you’ve received were never yours to carry. They came from others’ darkness. Never let them define you.
Smile. Create. And be happy today. You deserve it.