Growing up, I was fortunate to instinctively develop discernment-that was necessary for survival. Observing those around me, I saw differences and that what seemed obvious might not be so. Quite left to my own resources, a small group of people welcomed myself and my brother into their homes. The sadness at being neglected was assuaged by learning that soft-loving hearts were not the property of one race or religion. Among the open-doors were the local Syrian families and Armenian's. George the barber cut my hair at not cost until I left the area at eighteen.I will never forget his kindness nor that of his family. What a treat to have delicious meals where I encountered a life-long love of Middle Eastern food. Hospitality and inclusiveness was without pity or self-aggrandizement. Such kindness, built my heart of compassion and not bitterness and to them I bow.
