Open Letter to the Immigrant

Dear Sisters; Dear Brothers,

Your reasons to cross the lands and seas to come to us may be justified for security reasons, economical reasons or simply familial reasons.

I understand. I understand that you need the blanket of security that your home land cannot offer you at this moment. I understand that you are hoping to make a more decent life for yourself and your family, albeit economically or educationally.

I understand that you want to be reunited with your families far from you.

I understand, because if I were in your shoes, I would want that too.

Immigrants in nowadays are sadly labeled by many derogative words. I am sorry that the people and some media have been harsh on you.

If it were up to me, nothing would prevent you from being a part of this new country that you will choose to call home (or adoptive home).

I will welcome you this new place for you if you make a promise of integration. Let's both learn a way to better communicate with each other. I bet you have stories to share, and I would love to hear them.

I will share a part of my income (through the amazing maze of income taxation which then leads to social aides) to help you gain financial independence and education.

I will accept and respect you as long as you accept and respect me too. You can have my trust, and I would like to have yours. When the mutual trust we both seek is established, let's make a vow to not break it -- let the recycle to others in need.

I sincerely hope that we, all together, can walk to this brighter future.

Yours truly, E. W.