The Bridges We Will Build

Chapter 1

Acknowledgements

AcknowledgementsWhile this novel is a work of fiction, it is inspired by real places, people, and events. The Unity School may not exist in name, but it exists in essence in the form of the International Community School in Georgia. Without naming names (you know who you are), I want to thank my Beloved Community of ICS for bravely being in the world, because by doing so, bridges are being built. The refugees that I have come to know and love, that are both my family and friends, are the single-most awe-inspiring group of humans I have had the pleasure of knowing. I wish that everyone might know you as I do – for if not, the loss is theirs and theirs alone. Refugee, you are the hero of your own story, no one else. You are the survivor, the warrior of heart, the one who perseveres.

I want to thank my husband, Rodney, for being such a supportive partner and helping me find the time and space needed to write this book. Without him, it wouldn’t have been possible. To my two children, the whole of my heart, everything I do is for you.

Finally, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to my publisher, Victor Volkman, founder of Modern History Press, and team for giving this book a home. Your experience and wisdom helped guide this work into its complete and finished form.