What makes a good neighbor?

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8 responses to “What makes a good neighbor?”

1. 

   Lincol Martín

   10/07/2025

   This is a short but very revealing text. It depicts an everyday situation that becomes a moment of tension due to racial prejudice. Through a simple fact, it highlights how racism and mistrust still affect diverse families. The closing text invites reflection and understanding, reminding us that empathy and respect must prevail in a diverse society.

   Reply
   1. 

      LILI FLORIDA

      10/07/2025

      Many immigrants live in our neighborhood. So neighbors have diverse backgrounds.

      We visited a small town in northern Florida, close to Georgia. I don’t remember what year we visited, but it was soon after the COVID-19 pandemic ended. I think people were sensitive about race.

      Thank you for your comment. 🙂🙏

      Reply
2. 

   Michael Williams

   10/07/2025

   oh my gosh Lili-san. i’m glad the argument did not escalate! Mike

   Reply
   1. 

      LILI FLORIDA

      10/07/2025

      I don’t know how they started arguing. At first, the paramedic asked my daughter to take a pregnancy test. He might say it jokingly. But my husband is a serious person. He didn’t think it was a joke.

      I have a similar experience. When we got married, we went to the immigration office. During the interview, the officer said to my husband, “In my entire career, I have never met a couple like you (Cuban & Japanese). So I’d like to talk to your wife without you.”

      After my husband left the room, she asked me many questions in English and Spanish. Immigration interview questions are usually only in English (if English is limited, it is allowed to bring an interpreter).

      Reply
3. 

   myrelar

   10/07/2025

   Experiences like this remind us how important it is to be open and respectful of differences in a community. A good neighbor approaches with understanding and no prejudice. Everyone deserves safety and respect. 🤝🌍

   Reply
   1. 

      LILI FLORIDA

      10/07/2025

      Yes! 🙂

      Reply
4. 

   Darryl B

   10/09/2025

   I’m sure the paramedic was just concerned for your daughter’s well being, but that doesn’t help the hurt and pain. I’m sorry you went through this 😢❤️

   Reply
   1. 

      LILI FLORIDA

      10/10/2025

      Hi! Before my husband experienced it, I had experienced more direct discrimination in Japan. When I was walking down the street with my husband, an old man suddenly shouted at us, “A young woman (bitch) walking with a foreigner!”

      Over 20 years ago, international marriages weren’t common yet. Being different from others seemed to be a bad thing. But now, many foreigners live in Japan. Times have changed.

      Thank you for your comment. 🙂🙏🌸

      Reply