We had a wonderful evening at some old friends’ house. The occasion was the 25th anniversary of the arrival of a family from Cambodia (Kampuchea). The Soeuns (a.k.a. Kims) were sponsored by our old church Trinity Covenant, and last evening’s party was open to all those who participated in their welcome, tutoring, and general adjustment to a wholly different culture. They came knowing almost no English, and they were continually amazed at the difference between our country and the place from where they came. It was a challenge tutoring them when they first came, ill-equiped as I was. I spent most of my time helping Ken (pronounced “Kane”). It was loads of fun teaching him how to drive a car.

Looking back two and a half decades is sobering. So much has changed, but the connection is as strong as it was then. Their warmth was as real, their smiles were as genuine, and their appreciation was as encouraging. The transition through the years has been remarkably smooth. They are all happily employed and supportive of each other in the family. And to our surprise they even sponsored a nephew and his wife from Cambodia these past 18 months. We got to meet them at the party.

The evening’s focus was primarily on the present and the good things of life, although whenever I see them a part of me remembers the “killing fields” from which they escaped. Koliyan, the oldest daughter, has the most heart-wrenching story of her separation from her family when he was only five and six. But those trials of her early years have helped form her into a very compassion, caring nurse and mother today.

And then there are the egg rolls. I dream about these tasty concoctions. I’ve never found any anywhere that come close to the scrumptiousness of these works of art. No sauce is ever needed. They are perfect by themselves. And I’ll never disclose how many I ate last night. Thank you Soeuns, you have so greatly enriched our lives.