In helping to support folks newly arrived to Brattleboro, I have found myself in a growing relationship with an Afghan family. They have been here about six months.
Z, the father, is about 35. He and his wife, M, have an infant son. They are expecting another baby come March. Back in Afghanistam, Z. was a psychologist and M. was a lawyer.
They now live in downtown Brattleboro. Z. works at Lactalist in Guilford.
Before Z. got his driver’s license and car this past week, I would sometimes take him to and from work.
During these rides we would talk about many things. In becoming friends we have given each other permission to ask many questions. (Do you change your son’s diapers? Yes.) We have learned a lot from each other.
The other day Z. tells me that a very elderly man living next door to them had fallen and that there was no one there to help him up. He asks me “Why do you let this to happen? That would ever happen in my country.”
I replied that his question was a good one and we should talk more.
Taking Z home from work a few nights later, we made our usual small talk. As he was about to get out of the car, he says to me, “I am so happy my son will be growing up in this country.”
Post submitted by Whitman Wheeler October 2024
From Afar to Home: Vermont Journeys 