SAFE HAVEN?

Glad for the end of the Trump era that separated so many children from their parents as they tried to cross the border. To add to it, he constructed a border wall so that the refugees crossing from Mexico do not enter American soil. But what does Trump know or experienced in his 70 something years on this planet? (“A home with a family is beter than a mass camp,” July 10, Gulf Today).

Migrations have been the norm of the human species ever since the ape stood on its feet. The various species walked across Africa and crossed into other landmasses and continents.

It follows the principle of osmosis. The denser liquid will flow into the one that’s less dense. Humans will always seek “greener” pastures. And why not? The planet is one big home. Borders are but imaginary and Trump tried to make one part of that border real, by atempting to construct a border wall.

It is the kindness of families like the Umphlets who extended care and empathy towards the 12-year old from the Honduras, that give hope that all kindness is not lost. “I imagine her first introduction to the US was probably not super friendly, was probably confusing,” said Chris Umphlet. The humanity shown by this family will perhaps help ease the fear of the child and change her view that all adults are not bad.

While America might be the country they flee to, it has not been friendly. It may be the country of their dreams, but it’s a country that spurns them.

Abilasha D By email