Left to right: Adina, our Casserly House adult learner honoree with her son, and Donna
Adina and Donna present Mark Smith, with a certificate of recognition for his dedicated volunteer work as an ESOL instructor.
In a packed room in Roslindale’s Library, Casserly House joined ABCD Boston-Roslindale to honor adult learners and volunteers, each making remarks after heartfelt introductions. “There is nothing that will stop me from my dreams,” said one immigrant from ABCD characterizing the evening’s inspirational spirit. Donna introduced our awardee Michelle, noting “With her classmates, she exemplifies the dear neighbor.” Michelle said, “Casserly House is my second home. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!” Then, she sang in French, “Qu’il est formidable d’aimer“ (How Wonderful it is to Love) with others spontaneously joining in, children dancing, and others clapping.
Held on May 15th, this annual, collaborative event was led by Bill Campbell, facilitator of our Roslindale Adult Literacy Community Planning Group. Each honoree spoke after being introduced by their instructor. RISE – Roslindale IS for Everyone gave gift cards to each honoree. We were joined by Courtney White, the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Advancement-MOIA staff and Josh McCorkle, the City of Boston’s Roslindale Neighborhood Liaison. Both City Councilors Pepén and Mejia addressed the gathering, acknowledging the ability to speak another language is “our superpower.” “Courageous” and “inspirational” were commonly uttered words, with City Councilor Pepén adding, “I am proud of you.”
“Qu’il est formidable d’aimer”
“How Wonderful It Is to Love”
Qu’il est formidable d’aimer,
How wonderful it is to love,
Qu’il est formidable!
How truly wonderful!
Qu’il est formidable d’aimer,
How wonderful it is to love,
Qu’il est formidable!
How truly wonderful!
Aimer, c’est donner du bonheur,
To love is to give happiness,
Aimer, c’est donner de la joie,
To love is to give joy,
Aimer, c’est donner du bonheur,
To love is to give happiness,
Aimer, c’est donner de soi!
To love is to give of oneself!