"The Story of Me: Not Just Who I Am, But Why I Am That Way"

My name is Phuentsho Choden. I am 15 years old and I come from a place called Dorokha. My mother’s name is Renu Maya Sunwar. She is also from Dorokha. My father’s name is Tshering Dorji, and he is from Bumthang. He works as a contractor.

Not everyone understands why I am the way I am. Some people might think I’m quiet or distant, but there is a reason behind it. I’m a person who doesn’t talk to everyone, and there is a reason for this. I’ve noticed that not everyone can be trusted or become a real friend. Sometimes, people get close just to find out personal things about you and later use that information against you. Because of this, I prefer to keep my thoughts and feelings private and be careful about who I trust. It’s not that I don’t want friends, but I want to protect myself from getting hurt or betrayed.

All of a sudden, I fell in love with playing the guitar. It became something that makes me truly happy. I play when I feel bored or sad. I know I’m not perfect, but I always try my best. I started playing the guitar when I was in Class 7, and I’ll keep working hard and never give up.

"Who knew 7th grade had this vibe?"

My first best friend was Passang Dolma. We met in primary school. She was very kind to me. We played and studied together. Her mother was very nice to everyone. I will always remember how caring Passang was. She was the first person who showed me what a true friend is.

Even now, I still think of Passang as my best friend. We don’t talk much like we used to, but I can’t forget her. I can’t say she is not my best friend, because in my heart, she still is.

Passang - "Quiet in the corner but loud in my best memories."

Now, my best friend is Kunzang Dokar. She has been my friend since 2023. She teaches me many things about life. She always says, “Don’t give up.” She helps me when I feel sad. She is with me in my happy and sad times. She never used to get angry. She always told me, “We should never say anything bad to anyone.” She was the most different person I have ever met. Her family is also very nice to me. They make me feel like I have another family.

Kunzang - "The kind of friend who made even the boring days feel golden."

I hope I can follow my dreams and do what makes me happy. I will work hard and never give up, even when things are hard. One day, I want to be proud of myself. I will keep trying, learn new things, and believe in myself. I know I can do great things if I keep going.