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SLMontgo's avatar

Walter, I do appreciate that you would rather be writing. I am a reader and appreciate excellent writing. Next New Year's, tell Javi he's got a lot of new admirers.

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Walter Rhein's avatar

Thank you!

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Fred Johnson's avatar

Great story. Thanks, Walter. Fellow hayseed.

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Walter Rhein's avatar

Thanks Fred!

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Christina Ronnberg's avatar

As a social worker - I get OMG that must be a terrible awful job over and over. And sometimes it is. But your essay made me think I have to assume everyone who comes to me is worthy of respect and help and support - if I don’t start with that then nothing positive will happen. Have I been disappointed 100x - yes

Have I been surprised about what people can get through and how hard they will fight for a better life - 10000000000x. I will bet on my fellow human every time. We are all that we got.

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Walter Rhein's avatar

Thank you for that!

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Maria Tambien's avatar

Lovely piece Walter. We all have a Javi in our lives.💜

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Walter Rhein's avatar

Thanks Maria!

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HeartOpen's avatar

Again, you've articulated my thoughts and approach to life. Everyone is a possible friend unless they prove otherwise. I think this is good for me, and those around me. Yeah, I've been told I often see the world through rose-coloured glasses, but it's preferable to viewing it with suspicion and hostility. The world feels like a much better place when I approach life with love. As always, warmest wishes to you and your beautiful family from Toronto 😊

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Jo Burns's avatar

Wonderful story! I had many Javis as a teacher in a county school. Their families were the nicest and most hardworking. We are family. Kindred spirits!

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