By Aljood Alfeeli (YES 2019-2020, Kuwait, hosted by ACES in Oregon, OH) 

Dear Cherrefe, 

Someone very wise taught me to always write a thank you letter whenever someone does something nice for you, so this letter is for you. When I first arrived to the U.S. I didn’t realize how my host family would be such an important part of my exchange year — it really surprised me! Looking back, my relationship with you is my favorite part of the year. Now I have a second family 6,000 miles away that will always love me and support me.

I’m so grateful that you decided to host me and be my host mom. At the beginning of my exchange year you promised me to give me a full year with lots of experiences and you certainly kept your promise. Now I can’t imagine my year any different. You taught me many unforgettable lessons including how to keep up a conversation, and how to be always be productive. Thank you for always bringing out the best in me, and when something didn’t go the way I hoped, you always kept me positive. During the times I felt sad, you always know how to cheer me up, and I don’t know how you were always successful — probably the ice cream! Unfortunately, my year with you was cut short because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and there were many things that we didn’t get to do. Everything happened so quickly that I didn’t get to say a proper goodbye to you and everyone else.

I really hope we get to meet soon in the future. You really had a huge impact on me and I want you to know that I love you so much and I will always be there for you.Thank you again! I want to also thank the YES program and the U.S. State Department for giving me this amazing opportunity. 

Sincerely, 

Jood