12 Comments
User's avatar
Judy Stork's avatar

This is a beautiful story Mike. Happy Belated Birthday to your friend. Shows how a little bit of kindness goes along way. :-)

Michael Ransom's avatar

Thank you Judy. I spoke with Chau yesterday on his birthday - he's as upbeat as ever. I think Anne Frank is credited for the quote: "He/she who is happy will make others happy, too." I couldn't agree more.

Etya Krichmar's avatar

This is a beautiful story, Michael! As a refugee myself, I can relate to how difficult it is to learn a new language and to assimilate in a new country. I could just imagine how hard it must have been for Chau. What an amazing strength and perseverance! Happy belated birthday to your friend.

Michael Ransom's avatar

Thanks very much Etya. You speak from experience, for sure. I spoke to Chau yesterday, and he was as upbeat as ever. Thanks for your continued reading and commenting on my posts. I plan to take a read through your recent draft in the next few weeks. Ever onward!

Etya Krichmar's avatar

Thank you so much. I appreciate you, Michael!

Michael Ransom's avatar

You’re welcome! Isn’t Substack great for connecting with kind people?

Kent opheim's avatar

Maybe we can elect some of these people to lead our nation before they are deported, imprisoned or worse. Yes there are people out there like that. I’m grateful for your sharing, Mike. Your friend, Kent

Michael Ransom's avatar

I agree! I feel sad and angry that our current WH occupant makes fun of people like Chau. I didn’t go there in the article …

Be well …. keep doing good things. In friendship, Mike

Diane Kinneberg's avatar

Amazing resilience! Thank you for sharing this story, Mike.

Michael Ransom's avatar

Thanks Diane. Glad to share. Resilience is the right word!

Loren Else's avatar

Outstanding story, incredible drive. Thank you for telling it.

Michael Ransom's avatar

And thank you for reading and commenting! It’s always good to hear from you.