We must escape.  

If we are to have any chance of surviving, we must leave our homeland and go elsewhere.

After much discussion with my wife and older children, we have decided that this is best for us.  While the trip may be very long and fraught with danger/uncertainty, it is better than staying behind and risk getting shot at (or worse).

The countryside has been crawling with enemy soldiers.  To see them causes bile to rise in my throat and to fear for the lives of my wife and children.  If we aren't careful, we could very easily end up being captured (or at least injured or possibly even killed).

We will start our journey tonight, in the dark night, where, hopefully, nobody will see us.

 We will find ourselves a sturdy boat big enough to fit all five of us, then start on our journey.  We have gathered what we have left, and we will have the blessings of our god (and the stars) to guide us.  

I look at the pinched faces of my wife and our youngest children.  I suddenly feel as if I am carrying the entire fate of our country on my shoulders.  I guess in a way I am because I am responsible for my family's safety or future.  If it were not for this sudden decision, I would not be in the predicament I (or my family) will be in later on.

The older children understand the gravity of the situation.  I am not so sure about our youngest son, who is barely out of babyhood.  Such innocence, such trust in that sweet little face with the round cheeks!  He looks up at me expectantly; he has no idea of what lies ahead, not only for him, but for the rest of us.

I can only pray to Buddha, ask for his divine guidance and protection as we undertake this journey.  I pray we will reach America (or some other destination); life has got to be much better than living in constant fear or seeing the destruction of our homeland ...

To be continued.