Highly Commended: Ryan Kim

Category A: Secondary School (12 to 14 years) Highly Commended (2024), Golden Tales Short Story Competition
Author: Ryan Kim

On an arduous journey, long and wide,

To South Korea, where beauty abides.

Awaited my grandpa with elation in his eyes,

the man who taught me notions that were wise.

The first notion, to protect those in need.

Grandpa always donates, blesses and feed;

His altruism illuminating the shattered.

And he says, ‘kindness is the mark we leave on the world’.

The second notion, be candid and frank,

Do not let the truth be stashed.

Grandpa promotes candour constantly

For he knows, ‘honesty is the best policy’.

The third notion, advocate for justice,

So prejudice and condescension we notice.

Grandpa entrusts in holiness;

Thus, he believes that, ‘comparisons are odious’.

The last notion, receive, reciprocate and thrive.

Grandpa always pay the price,

For he knows that reciprocity will brighten up one’s day,

And he articulates, ‘a little reciprocity goes a long way’.

Now I wistfully embark home

But with wisdom that has grown.

For all the moral teachings grandpa apprised,

That are worthless and beyond prized.