Image from the Biodiversity Heritage Library.
Contributed by Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California, Berkeley.
| www.biodiversitylibrary.org
Transcription
(1958) to (1960 in 25, ft mass traffic subway)
filed on March
I was told by a friend (his name is Mr. M.) that he had been sent out of the country for his own safety, and glad to think that I could do something about it. I am sure you will be very happy, glad to see me again. He's always gone out of his way to help others, and glad to know that he has done so much for him. I'm glad too.
He said: "I was born in Russia, moved here in 1907, and came back to New York in 1938." He told me about the time when he first came to America, and how hard it was to find work and make a living. He also talked about his family, and how they had struggled to survive during those difficult years.
He said: "I remember one day when I went out to look for work, and I saw a man who looked like me, except that he was wearing a suit instead of rags. So I walked up to him and asked if he needed any help. He smiled and said, 'No thanks, but maybe you could use some advice.' And so we began our conversation about life in America, and what it meant to be an immigrant here.
He said: "One thing that struck me most was the kindness of people I met along the way. They always seemed willing to lend a hand, whether it was giving directions or helping with groceries. It reminded me of stories my grandmother used to tell about her own experiences as a young girl arriving in New York City.
He said: "There is no doubt that there is something special about America, and I am grateful for the opportunity to call this country home. But I also know that it takes time to truly feel at ease here, and I still have much to learn about life on these shores."
He said: "But until then, I'll just keep working hard and trying my best to make a living for myself and my family. And who knows? Maybe someday soon, I'll even get to see the sights of Paris or London, just like you did before me. Until then, thank you very much for your kindness and hospitality."