In this trying time, I thought well to write a piece about the lovely little community I’ve been living in since 2014. Originally from the beautiful, paradisiac island of Mauritius, in the Indian Ocean, I certainly wasn’t expecting the warm welcome I received when I migrated to the USA, Arlington, Washington.
From day one, this community has been accepting, supportive, welcoming, understanding, and loving. Its people have been patient and, on many occasions, helpful. As someone who came to Arlington, Wa, as a teenager, who could barely speak proper English and was nervous in front of people, I can one hundred percent attest to the latter.
Respectfully nodding at one another, waving, or smiling as a greeting is a commonality within the people of Arlington, WA. And stopping to compliment someone or for chitchat is further normal amidst this community — no matter who you are. These attributes, among many others, are what makes this little town so beautiful and a lovely place to live.
As a matter of fact, if I’ve mastered speaking confidently in English, that too in front of several people, that’s because this community has given me the chance to test my voice amidst them — to contribute to its community with my talents and skills.
To be honest, if I had to put it on a scale, 9 out of 10 people I meet and interact with have shown NO sight of discrimination, prejudice, or hate.
Arlington, Wa, USA — A community that doesn’t discriminate between people because of their race, color, ethnicity, culture, or gender. You get what you get base on your actions.
A year ago, after several years of only publishing online, I took the step to start publishing print copies of my novels. The people of this community didn’t have to take a chance on me since they didn’t really know me. I had, after all, come out of nowhere, from an Island, most didn’t even know existed.
But as the supportive community they have been since day one, they cheered me on and openheartedly welcomed this new author amidst them. Some even went out of there way to offer me advice concentrating on how I can distribute my books to more people of the community.
That, on its own, is a showcase of humanity, generosity, and respect. And that’s how we ought to treat each other no matter what color our skins are.
You can read more about how the local newspaper took a chance to support me and my work.
Signing off.
