Over five decades ago, I arrived in the U.S. as an international student, settling in a small university town in Indiana. Surrounded by unfamiliar faces and struggling with limited English, I faced loneliness and worry. Yet, I immersed myself in adapting to my new environment, balancing schoolwork and seeking employment to cover tuition and living expenses.

As fall arrived, with leaves changing colors and the weather cooling, the anticipation for Thanksgiving filled the air. Every student was eager to return home, especially the freshmen. My only wish was to earn some extra money during the break. At the time, Thanksgiving, being an American holiday, held little significance for me; I yearned for the familiar flavors of my hometown.

In search of work, I visited the school’s job placement services, where I met Mrs. Brown, a well-dressed, middle-aged woman. Nervously, I shared my desire for a holiday job. Her incredulous reaction led to an unexpected invitation to her home for Thanksgiving. Feeling overwhelmed with homesickness, I initially declined her kind offer, focusing instead on finding work. After a brief pause, Mrs. Brown helped me secure a painting job renovating the dormitory bathroom. Although I had no experience, I eagerly accepted the challenge, earning $100 for 20 hours of work.

After Thanksgiving, I returned to class and shared my experience with my professor, focusing on the financial aspect. Two weeks later, I received wonderful news: he had secured a scholarship for me, covering my tuition and providing a stipend for living expenses. This marked the beginning of my role as his assistant, transcribing lectures from tapes—an initially daunting task that ultimately improved my language skills.

Mrs. Brown continued to support me, finding me various interesting jobs, such as ushering at school concerts and waitressing at major banquets. Through her efforts, I was introduced to a host family—a music professor and his wife—who welcomed me as their fourth daughter. Their warmth and generosity transformed my days, demonstrating the power of acceptance and kindness.

Through all the challenges, I found strength in painting. That Thanksgiving season, the paint job became a metaphorical baptism, renewing my spirit. Watching the transformation of a freshly painted room empowered me to rise again, ready to face life’s challenges with renewed vigor.