The whole story of how we fell into each others' lives, I still do not know...
Few have tried to paint an image...
An image of our first encounter and your next step after returning home...
But I only know what their lips speak, for my memory is now hazy and I being a young African girl who spoke no English I could not understand what was taking place.
My memory faded as my smile grew bigger and my heart grew fonder.
My memory is blurry, but my gratitude still stands proud and tall like a beautiful cherry blossom tree.
Where do I even begin to describe my thankful appreciation?
From the much-needed support in hard times, to the life-enriching opportunities, I give great thanks
A young child's mind lacks understanding in certain situations
A young girl's brain is not able to comprehend difficult events,
For you were once a kind stranger who turned into a beloved friend
A big thank you for your caring and loving soul
In my lifetime I have not received much hatred or animosity, yet I know it exists...
It remains in our lives playing softly in the background like elevator music
Therefore I thank you for your generosity and kind heart
Without such kind attributes, the whereabouts of my family I cannot say
A big smile of joy and happiness goes out to you for your curiosity
"Curiosity killed the cat," they say
"Curiosity aid my family," I say
For I suppose at age 7 children are driven through curiosity
For without your curiosity, this lifelong friendship would not have been formed
Although the memory of our first meeting is now blurred, all the fun moments from summers on the beach to jumping on the trampoline in the backyard to eating loads of oranges to adventurous bicycle rides around the neighborhood...
All these moments are all still vivid and vibrant in my mind
A gracious thank you to you all for my new experiences and adventures
Such experiences are forever with me for they shaped me into the young woman I am today
Lastly, a warm thank you to you all for your tender love and care
