Somehow I get to be the one to sit behind this table to enjoy sweet Syrian treats and a cup of hot coffee while chatting with a group of Syrian ladies. The hospitality of newcomers absolutely astounds me. Since 2008, I’ve been the stranger welcomed into hundreds of homes of people from all over the world. The majority of the people that I meet are among families that are starting their lives over after war, natural disaster, or persecution. Most have lost or disconnected from loved ones and friends. When I visit families, I don’t expect anything when I knock on the door. I know there is often little extra funds for the family to splurge and whatever they do have they are eager to send back to their loved ones in desperate need.

Despite difficult circumstances, about 95% of the time, the newcomers I meet greet me and any guest that comes along with a warm welcome into their home and some type of treat to eat and/or drink. The customs and culture of the majority of our clients find it most proper for them to rise to an excellent level of hospitality to anyone who visits their home. Most will bring a tray of goodies to you with a genuine smile on their face because they truly are happy you took the time out of your otherwise busy American life to spend with them. It’s hard to not feel like royalty when visiting families and all I can think of is how can I give back to these families with any similarity of great respect and admiration?

The Syrian people have struggled and suffered a lot in the last decade. I have so many beautiful and kind friends from this country and want to help them to reconnect with their family of which many were separated from in the 2015 war. Now families are experiencing earthquakes in Syria and Turkey and desperate to reconnect to family even more. Together they could help one another more.

Would you consider giving today to help us serve Syrian families? https://ashasrefuge.kindful.com/ is the link to directly donate. The hospitality of Syrians, who did not know me at all when they first came to Memphis, is truly something indescribable and incredible. I know they are hard working people that want good for their family trying to live a life to own their own businesses and give back to their community. We are happy to know our Syrian friends and are praying for them.

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” -Hebrews 13:2

“When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.” -Leviticus 19:33-34