1998

In the first week of June 1998, an exciting journey began. An American company in Newark, Delaware, sent us airplane tickets, and the days that followed were filled with goodbyes, shopping, and packing—all with hopeful hearts.

On June 12th, we landed at New York’s JFK Airport. Everything felt new—different sounds, unfamiliar faces, and the nervous thrill of stepping into the unknown. Our next flight was to Philadelphia, so we hurried to the terminal, holding onto our bags and our hopes.

Then came an unclear announcement—partly heard, partly guessed. The heavy American accent and airport noise made it hard to understand. Something about weather delays and cancellations, but we weren’t sure.

Eight long hours passed. Hunger set in. Tired and confused, we stood in an endless line, feeling invisible—like strangers in a land that didn’t yet speak our language.

I grew frustrated. My wife, ever calm, stayed patient. When I snapped, she responded with quiet strength, keeping me steady in the chaos.

Finally, at 10 p.m., we reached the counter—only to learn all flights to Philadelphia were canceled. The airline offered a shuttle instead. We rushed and barely made it.

The three-hour ride was tense. Passengers argued loudly, their anger clear even without translation. Hungry and exhausted, I wondered, Is this the developed world?

But first impressions can be wrong.

At 3 a.m., we arrived at Philadelphia Airport. To our surprise, the company’s CEO was waiting—warm and welcoming. I had worked with him before in Switzerland. He greeted us in Tamil, our mother tongue, bringing comfort in the cold night. He drove us to our new home in Newark, Delaware.

There, another kind soul waited—Basil Antony, a colleague from India. Despite the late hour, he patiently showed us how to use the stove, microwave, and other appliances. We cooked, ate, and finally rested.

“When a stranger lives with you in your land, treat them with kindness, as one of your own.” — Leviticus 19:33-34

That night, this verse stayed in my heart. True kindness, not convenience, defines a place. Though our journey started with struggle, it soon became a story of warmth, help, and shared humanity.