The Other Side of the Sky

“I have seen my dreams crushed, but new ones have sprouted in their place, and some of those dreams have even come true. I have lost loved ones but not love itself. That’s what my story is about, I think. That’s the story I want to share with you now, the story of my life, so far.” 

Ahmedi was reluctant to write her memoir as a teenager, rightfully pointing out that her life has not been long enough to be worthy of a book-length reflection. But it is also true that her experiences in her short life have been tremendous, and the telling of it is indeed a gift worthy of any and every life. She tells her story with humility and an awareness beyond her young years that what matters is not her experiences or accomplishments, but rather the message of love that connects each and every person’s story.

“Lately, I dream that I’ve grown wings sometimes. I have feathers. I can fly. I love those dreams! I’m soaring overhead, and people are all pointing to me and exclaiming, Look! It’s Farah! She can fly! Farah can fly!” 

In the first chapter, Ahmedi introduces the reader to her voice that will narrate The Other Side of the Sky. She is a teenager, newly re-settled in the US after several years as a refugee from war in Afghanistan. The transition was difficult, and in this first chapter, she describes some of her many recurring nightmares. She ends the chapter, however, with this hopeful dream that represents overcoming. In this vision, she takes flight with wings that represent change, love, and growth.