There are no strangers here

There was a time when I was heavily involved with programmes that helped newly arrived foreign families to settle in. It was a personally satisfying and rewarding thing to do, and I remember how happy I'd be when I hear from the wives months/years later how much the initial contact had helped them.

I don't have much to do with newly arrived foreign families in recent years. Certainly not in any formal capacity. The last one I put in touch with her community was a couple of years ago and I did it because she is from one of the lesser represented groups here.

I recently met a woman from this under-represented group. I hesitated about getting involved because setting up the initial contact takes effort and time. Then there is the early hand-holding her through the different social/cultural events till she is comfortable with the group.

But I never forgot the kindness of strangers who came forward to help me integrate into my new environment. Although it is much easier now to get in touch with newcomers groups via the internet, making that first contact can be still daunting for some people.

So, I decided to step in again. I introduced the newly arrived to a few of her country folks over coffee. The women were thrilled to meet each other and before long, they were exchanging phone numbers and email contact with promises to include the new girl at their next get together.

The new arrival will do fine living here. Her compatriots will do everything to make her adjustment easier.

There are no strangers here;
Only friends you haven't yet met.

William Butler Yeats

As I recall those words, I smiled; I know I have done the right thing for a new friend :)