Reyna Somboon

Acrylic on Canvas

24 x 36 inches

2024

In the heart of Bangkok, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant markets, there lived a boy named Somboon. From a young age, he knew he was different. While other boys played soccer and dreamed of becoming warriors, Somboon found solace in the delicate beauty of flowers and the graceful movements of dancers. As he grew older, Somboon discovered the truth about himself – he was a girl trapped in a boy's body. Terrified of the societal repercussions, she kept her feelings hidden, burying them deep within her heart. But like a seed longing to break free from the earth, her true identity yearned to blossom. One fateful day, Somboon stumbled upon a hidden alleyway adorned with colorful lanterns and fragrant incense. Intrigued, she ventured further, where she discovered a small temple dedicated to the reyna of transformation. It was here that Somboon found the courage to embrace her true self. With trembling hands, she lit a stick of incense and whispered a prayer to the reyna. "Grant me the strength to bloom," she pleaded, her voice barely above a whisper. And as if in response, a sense of peace washed over her, filling her with a newfound sense of purpose. Driven by newfound determination, Somboon embarked on a journey of self-discovery. She sought out others like her, finding solace and support within the community of Bangkok. Together, they shared their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs, each one a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. With each passing day, Somboon grew bolder, shedding the layers of fear and shame that had bound her for so long. She experimented with makeup and fashion, reveling in the freedom to express herself authentically. And with each step she took, she felt a little more whole, a little more alive. But the path to self-acceptance was not without its challenges. Somboon faced discrimination and prejudice from those who could not understand her journey. Yet, she refused to be silenced, her spirit unyielding in the face of adversity. And so, like a lotus rising from the muddy waters, Somboon blossomed into her true self, a radiant beacon of hope and resilience for all who dared to follow their hearts. With each passing day, her light shone brighter, illuminating the path for others to find their own truth and embrace their own beauty. And as she stood beneath the twinkling stars of the Bangkok night sky, Somboon knew that her journey was far from over. But with the love and support of her chosen family by her side, she was ready to face whatever the future held, knowing that she was finally free to be who she was always meant to be – a beautiful, proud trans girl from Thailand.