The Happy Asylum-Seeker

“O” fled his home in the Arabian Peninsula eight months ago. His journey in search of safety took him from Africa to Eurasia, then through much of South America, Central America, and Mexico.

Yesterday “O” was released from Stewart Detention Center, but guards dropped him off late at the Atlanta airport. He consequently missed his flight to the US West Coast and needed hospitality for the night. Thanks to the solidarity of the Atlanta Friends Meeting, we were able to welcome “O” just as we continue to receive others released from detention during COVID-19.

After a harrowing journey alongside a sibling who sadly remains detained in another state, one would expect this final setback to be deflating. But not for “O.”

“O” turned to me with a “smize” (you know, that masked smile that is seen in the eyes…) and said, “Allah must have a reason why I get to spend time with you. And for that, I am happy!”

I offered to take “O” out for his first meal in the US. “O” wanted to walk, so I described the breadth of cuisine that Decatur offers. After going through the extensive catalog, I added, “Oh, and of course, there is American fast food,” and listed the ones that came to mind. Guess what “O” selected…

“O” had never been to this particular restaurant. He ordered chicken medallions and fries. When asked what sauce he wanted, he had no clue. I informed the cashier it was “O’s” first time in this franchise restaurant and requested a sampler of every sauce they had. I offered to pay for the extra sauces, but the manager, overhearing our conversation, interjected, “Let them have the sauce… on the house!”

“O” and I broke bread (or processed chicken nuggets) at an outdoor picnic table. I sat silently as the night grew dark and listened to heartwrenching stories. For the last six years in his home country, “O” and his family have lived without electricity. There were hints of the war and violence that caused him and his sibling to clandestinely leave in search of refuge. And there were many peaks-and-valleys stories about a journey into lands where “O” would meet other migrants from places like Haiti and Iran in god-forsaken places like the Darien Pass jungle of Colombia.

We traveled to the airport early this morning after “O’s” prayers. He’s going to live with a relative he has never met. In the car, with masks on, windows down, and “O” sitting in the back passenger-side seat, I asked him what kind of music he enjoyed. I played some Arabic music, but he informed me that American pop music has been an enjoyable way for him to learn his English. So I turned on some pop music, and Pharrell Williams’ song “Happy” came on.”Oh, I love that song! I’ve heard it recorded in many different languages all over the world,” this young man said with his trademark blissful tone.

Please hold “O” in the Light as he awaits reunification with his sibling, who remains in detention. And may joy, hope, and resolve continue to guide “O” as he seeks asylum in the United States.

Please hold “O” in the Light as he awaits reunification with his sibling, who remains in detention. May joy, hope, and resolve continue to guide “O” as he seeks asylum in the United States.

Because I’m happy;
Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof…
Because I’m happy;
Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth…
Because I’m happy;
Clap along if you know what happiness is to you…
Because I’m happy;
Clap along if you feel like that’s what you wanna do…

Listen to this iconic tune in “O’s” first language, Arabic: