A Birthday of Gratitude: Giving Back at Salinas Strawberry Farm

November 7th was my birthday — and like a child still at heart, I was eagerly waiting to celebrate with my family, which I did with joy and laughter. As the evening came to a close around 11 p.m., my thoughts shifted from cake and candles to something deeper — our next morning’s visit to Salinas Strawberry Farm to donate food and clothes to the hardworking farmers who bring fresh produce to our tables.

The plan was to drive early to San Jose, meet my friends, and head together to Salinas. We’ve been volunteering with Hands that Care, a local organization led by Hector — a kind, humble soul whose story itself is an inspiration. Having endured hardship in his childhood, Hector once prayed, “If I survive this, I will return to serve my community.” He kept that promise. Today, despite managing his own cleaning business and facing financial challenges, he continues to give — consistently and quietly. Listening to him speak about his daughters pursuing master’s degrees in medical fields filled me with hope. Stories like his remind us how privileged many of us truly are.

This initiative was organized through Vanitha Charity Organization, where a few of us friends collected food cans, rice, winter clothes, socks, and other essentials — simple items that can mean so much. I missed the trip last year, so this time, I was eager to be there in person.

I reached my friend Priya’s home around 7:15 a.m. in San Jose. Since the farmers wouldn’t be arriving until later, Hector suggested we start around 9:30 a.m. In the meantime, Priya made us a warm, delicious breakfast and tea. There’s something special about people like her — kind, grounded, and genuine. I instantly felt a connection. Thank you, Priya, for your hospitality, and to Vanitha’s President Manju Abraham and Chairperson Geeta George, whose leadership continues to inspire me to stay involved.

The 60-mile drive from San Jose to Salinas was long but filled with laughter and conversation. I got to know Dr. Manju from Minneapolis and Priya’s husband Sree, who drove us and helped carry heavy boxes of food and clothes. His quiet strength and helpful nature made our trip smooth and cheerful.

We met Hector at La Patisserie Bakery — and even though we had already eaten, the aroma of pastries was hard to resist. When Hector arrived, his smile said it all — full of gratitude and warmth. He had also coordinated with another group bringing donations that day.

Following him to the Foothill Estate Strawberry Farm, we began setting up tables, sorting cans of soups, beans, noodles, rice, tomato sauce, and other staples. As the farmers came during their breaks, we handed out supplies. What struck me most was their dignity. No one grabbed or rushed. They took only what they needed, often saying “Gracias” and encouraging us to give to others.

There was such quiet grace in their actions — humility in the face of hardship, patience amid long days under the sun. One woman held a donated winter jacket close to her chest, as if embracing warmth itself. In that moment, I realized: the true worth of that jacket wasn’t when I owned it, but when she did.

The day was hot, and I was grateful to Priya for packing hats for us. But looking around, I thought of the farmers — toiling in that same heat, day after day. It was humbling. As we talked more with Hector, we learned about the farmers’ living conditions — some relying on tents as makeshift homes through the winter. We made notes on what they needed most so that we can bring more useful items next time.

Life has a way of teaching us quietly. That day, I learned more about gratitude, patience, and compassion than any book could teach. On the drive back, my heart was full and heavy all at once.

We stopped for lunch, and by the time we reached back, Priya invited us for evening tea. We ended the day with laughter and reflection — a beautiful contrast to the silence of the fields earlier that morning.

As I write this, I can still see the faces of the farmers — their tired smiles, their eyes filled with both fatigue and resilience. These moments are etched in my heart.

Once in a while, we must pause and look around us — beyond our routines, beyond our comfort zones — to truly see the people who make our lives possible. Many around us are struggling: farmers, cleaners, those affected by layoffs, or anyone trying to make ends meet with quiet dignity.

This planet belongs to all of us, and basic human needs should never be a privilege. The disparity we see is not just economic — it’s a reminder of our shared responsibility.

My deepest gratitude to the Vanitha Charity donors and every volunteer who made this effort possible. Your support brought food, warmth, and smiles to those who deserve it most.

Sometimes, the best way to celebrate a birthday is not with gifts we receive, but with the joy we give. ~ Dawn

~ Dawn

A Literary Retreat to Remember

The end of October turned out to be a true retreat — not just for the mind, but for the soul. I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a literature festival organized by the Literary Association of North America (LANA) in Dallas, Texas. 

 

From the moment I arrived, I felt an instant sense of belonging. Strangers would walk up, introduce themselves, and ask where I was from — and within minutes, conversations flowed like we’d known each other for years. The warmth and hospitality made it feel like home away from home.

There’s something magical about being surrounded by people who share your passion for words. Among like-minded souls, there’s no need for masks or pretensions. You simply show up as you are — and you’re accepted, appreciated, and celebrated for it.

“A word after a word after a word is power.” — Margaret Atwood

Over two days, I immersed myself in a world of writers, poets, and readers, each sharing their journeys, inspirations, and expectations from literature. The discussions were thought-provoking, touching upon not just the beauty of language but also the social and political currents that literature often stirs.

The festival featured several dynamic and eloquent speakers whose energy and authenticity made every session memorable.

Shaji Abraham

Dr. MV Pillai

I was deeply honored to be invited to recite my poem and speak about Hindi and Marathi literature — a topic close to my heart. The audience’s encouragement and appreciation reignited my creative spark and reminded me why I write.

“We read to know we are not alone.” — C.S. Lewis

The festival itself was beautifully organized. Behind the scenes, the volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure every participant felt welcomed and valued. Their dedication was visible in every detail — from smooth logistics to the personal touches that made each attendee feel special. Of course, events like this need sponsors, but it was the heart and hard work of the volunteers that truly made it shine.

Beyond the literary sessions, there were moments of joy — dance, music, and drama that brought people together in laughter and celebration. And oh, the food! Each meal was thoughtfully prepared and delicious — even now, as I think back, I can still taste those comforting flavors and relive those satisfying moments.

It wasn’t just a festival; it was an experience — one that nourished creativity, connection, and community. I came back from Dallas feeling inspired, grateful, and ready to write more.

Family

Experiences like these remind me that literature is not just about words — it’s about connection, empathy, and shared humanity. Whether through poetry, prose, or conversation, storytelling continues to bridge cultures and generations. I came back feeling inspired, grateful, and reminded of the simple truth that creativity thrives best in community.

“Stories are the communal currency of humanity.” — Tahir Shah

~ Dawn