Helen Zughaib
On a recent Saturday morning, I had the pleasure of meeting Stephen Haff, his colleagues and tutors, and his wonderful students. I did not know what to expect for the next hour or so, and as the time passed quickly by, I knew I was amongst one of the most special, unique and caring people I have ever met.
As an artist of Arab origin, the students were tasked with studying some of my paintings and then asked to write their own story in response. The students ranging in age from 10-50, were from Jordan, Mexico, Mauritania, Senegal and Thailand.
They each read their stories to me about their own journeys in life, filled with hardship, hope, love and dreaming for a new future in America.
As we all listened to one another in respectful silence to the stories being told, each one ended in joyous and supportive applause.
What an honor to have been asked by Stephen to join his class, inspired by my paintings, and to witness such deep connections being made with one another and the empathy and love that is overflowing from Stephen’s heart!
I will be back!!!