This evening we were invited to the Thai Street Market and treated to a free meal by the owners because we are a foster family. When we arrived, we were welcomed with open arms and treated like honored guests. Our table was set not only with dishes and silverware but also toys for the children and a card for our family which thanked us for “all that we do to make a difference in this world, one life at a time.”
In the current climate of hostility towards immigrants, I could not help but recognize some ironic parallels. While some families are turned away at the doorstep of our nation, we were welcomed. Where some children are put in “cages,” ours were given toys. Where some families are given the message that they are a burden, we were told that we are a blessing.
Which image reflects the “kindler, gentler nation” that President George H.W. Bush desired? As a nation, I think we can and should do better. I think we can all learn from the kindness and generosity of an immigrant family who is now not only our neighbor, but also our friend.
