We have gone several times to see the water lily by the lake near their house. They were still asleep. How long do lilies sleep, anyway? We will go again tomorrow and will only see one blooming water lily.
I promise I'll come back to see the water lilies. I say this on Zoom to Hoda, who is frustrated and choked up whenever she tries to speak. Sama is also there, her face lighting up when she hears I'm returning to Toronto.
When I say goodbye at the airport, life seems to freeze in Hedi's face. I hug her husband, Mohsen, and when it's her turn, I avoid looking at her to keep her from crying.
Hoda is powerful and very emotional. The political news and the country's turmoil frustrate her and Sama, Hengameh, and Mahdokht. These four are part of the Golden Circle of the Gypsies, a literary group I've written about extensively in my newsletter.
Together, we look at the photos taken by Hoda’s husband, Mohsen in my trip to Toronto in July 2024.
This video was taken by Hengameh’s husband (Javad) on July 23rd.
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What a trip, what a selection of hundreds photos and videos and what a memories that thinking of them bring warmth to my heart. I am so glad I made this trip. It all happened because you accepted the invitation of the University of Toronto and the Toronto's Koliha group. Thank you Moniro joon.❤