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Had to get outside today. Found myself at a park, where I felt compelled to defend an immigrant family’s right to be there.

I must admit, it took me a few minutes to speak up. I was initially reluctant to do so—I am not young. I am not in good health. I am not of large frame. And the young men were not nice.

So, I gathered my thoughts & my courage & then, said what I said. Something disarming & then, something more pointed. I ended up babbling something about the gift of this beautiful sun shiny day & was relieved when they turned & walked away.

The father shared his appreciation for my “kind manner.” Said his wife had wanted to leave but when he heard me, he said to her, “See. See, there are still kind people here.” We continued to talk for a bit and they were so lovely. I am happy to have met them & their beautiful children. I am happy I found the courage to say *something.*

Still, I cried all the way home.

We have to stand up for each other now.