Re: “Desire to be an American vital,” by Jo Francis Byrd, Monday Letters.
This letter concerning immigrants to our country who find it difficult to assimilate reflects the frustration many Americans have with a very difficult process of welcoming the stranger in our midst. Our country presents a puzzling maze for people who are new to our shores.
Working as a pastor in the midst of a changing Lewisville neighborhood where an aging, largely Anglo congregation struggles to get its arms around the immigrant community that needs welcome and support, we are challenged to provide ESL classes and fill the financial and emotional support gaps for students whose parents work two to three low-wage jobs and lack the time to do everything they need and want to do.
Add to the above the obvious language and cultural differences, and it is easy to understand frustration all around. I believe what is needed is more people who are willing to help reach out to these new neighbors and in that engagement find the great joy and excitement of being a part of the solution instead of simply standing by in frustration.
John Zeigler, Denton