“The only reason I ever spoke to Salma Santiago was because my dog ate her lunch.”

Lily encapsulates the unexpected circumstances that led to her first interaction with Salma. Their unlikely encounter serves as a metaphor for the serendipitous moments that contribute to Building Bridges across Cultural Divides.

“I don’t usually talk to those kids and they don’t usually talk to me.”

Lily reflects on the prevailing social barriers between locals and migrant workers. Her acknowledgment underscores the deep-seated divisions in the community, emphasizing the challenges that inhibit meaningful connections between individuals from different backgrounds.

“And I think Lucky knew that we needed her, maybe even more than she needed us.”

Lily subtly acknowledges Salma’s profound impact on their community in Maine. This insight underscores Lily’s recognition of Salma as a catalyst for positive change, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives and contributions in fostering community resilience and growth.