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We bought a car today. It will be really nice to have air conditioning, not to mention a driver’s side door and window that work. The lady we bought it from is a Muslim from Iran. Getting to know her through the purchase process was quite interesting; in fact the experience is one I will not soon forget. She took an immediate interest in Brittany, remarking that she had a daughter about the same age, and she was absolutely thrilled that we married fairly young. You really are wonderful, Brittany, and you must come and visit me in New York! Both of you, I’m serious. Friendship is very important and you must stay with us. I am religious in some things, you know, and this is one of them. You two, you and Brittany, are meant to have this car. Really! I’m serious, it is fate.

Our destiny? I asked.

Yes.

I met her today to finalize the sale: Since I am moving I am trying to get rid of some clothes, would Brittany want any of these things? She asked, pointing at a rack full of clothing. I smiled unsure how to respond, Hmm, I think that dress may be her size, but that is probably the only thing that would work for her–thank you, you’re very generous.

Later, on the way back from the bank she asked if I was a Christian, and then told me she was a Muslim, but she hastened to add that one’s religion isn’t the most important thing. The most important thing is respect and kindness. Oh, get in this lane, but don’t turn yet. Do you know? My daughter is dating a Jew! And it’s ok with me, I don’t care!

And later.

Ever since my husband died I have been lost, for two years I did nothing, I was just confused and sat around the house doing nothing. I am sick of it! I want to get a job rather than just sit around the house all day. Before I never worked. My husband would not hear of it; but now things are a mess, you know. Honestly, we (her immediate family) must do something.

Tell Brittany hello, you must bring her on Saturday when you pick up the car!