Arn Chorn Pond: Making Connections

Poly has had the privilege of having Mr. Pond speak on its campus twice in the last four years. While I, unfortunately, was not present for the first, I was enthralled at being able to attend the most recent one. Pond is someone who can be presented as a role model for just about anything. He started off the night by sharing some details from his past and revealing many of his experiences to the audience. As someone who has survived a horrible atrocity, the fact that Pond is able and willing to share his experiences is inspiring in it of itself. He focused on his survival of the Cambodian genocide and the bullying that ensued after he arrived in America. His own experiences were a true testimony to how powerful stories are, an idea that he has been trying to teach for some time. However, what particularly struck me, was what Pond was doing in his communities. This side of him which takes what he knows and puts into action concrete solution is even more inspiring. He mentioned some work he had done to create a soccer league which invited police officers to participate in efforts to help create a true connection between the gangs and officers. This is something I find amazing because it shows just how committed he is to his mission of peace and is only one example of actions he has made towards that mission. Overall Pond's visit was an honor to be a part of and I know inspiring to many of my peers, as well as myself.