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My American Life — Stories of Hope
Sharing stories of hope during a time of distress
I am distressed about the news from the US that continues to widen racial divides by forcing people to take sides, subscribe to stereotypes, and propagate hate.
In my years in the US, I met many wonderful people who expanded my world view, influenced me in small and not-so-small ways, and inspired me to be the best version of myself.
In an attempt to dispel the enveloping gloom, for the next few days, I will share vignettes of my life in the US where my life was enriched by many people who made my life easy or interesting or just plain fun. They were very different from me; they looked different, they spoke differently, and certainly our lives had very little in common. But we made a connection, sometimes fleeting, sometimes enduring.
Post #1: Language coach
As a Ph.D. student in Baltimore, between classes, I enjoyed hanging out with the admins in the department, Linda and Rhonda. In the years before personal computers and printers became commonplace, they helped type up recommendation letters, helped us apply for grants, and made travel arrangements.
Linda, the expert on all things local, welcomed every student with a smile, happy to share a book or restaurant…
