Both this image and my inspiration for this post are thanks to a Facebook repost by one of my "wayback" highschool friends. Thanks, Kelly!
refugee: (see "refuge")
refuge: safe shelter from danger or pursuit (see "safe")
safe: free from harm
The definition of "refugee" seems stretched when those seeking refuge out of fear for their lives and loved ones, land in exactly the same distress they sought to flee. Nothing is more meaningful or loving, no act more courageous, than providing safe shelter for a soul who desperately needs it.
No question, it's a complex problem. People are messy, especially in crowds. But one-on-one, it's heart-to-heart. Political leanings aside, satire is often a good communicator, opening minds with humor. As you head into this season of profound thanksgiving, click below to receive John Oliver's clever message. I fell in love with 16-year-old Noujain Mustaffa, a disabled, wheelchair-bound Syrian refugee who landed with her sister in a rubber dinghy on the shores of the Greek island of Lesbos. At the scene of her arrival, when asked if she was afraid during the crossing, she responded, "No, I enjoyed it. I have never been on a boat before. It was very beautiful. I didn't know if I was going to live or die, but thank God we are here." What a beautiful, eager spirit, yearning to shine bright; to express all she is; to be herself. Blessings to you, Noujain. Blessings to all refugees finding true refuge in the care of loving hands and hearts.
Migrants and Refugees: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO)