The volunteering has slacked off due to the administration’s inhumane border policy. Casa Alitas is closed and even bus loads of migrants arriving from the US to Nogales, Mexico are slowing down. A group named Salvavision was having volunteers hand out hats and gloves, backpacks and snacks in Nogales at the repatriation center but the Mexican government now whisks them off to other parts of the country before volunteers can have access to them. No one knows where they’ve been taken.

Yesterday I was able to accompany an asylum seeker to her court hearing in Tucson. She and her family felt threatened by the Mexican drug cartels and she feared her teenage children would be recruited into the gangs. Her cousin was murdered by the cartel criminals, so she crossed the border. Unfortunately she may not be eligible for asylum as one has to fall into a category of persecution due to race, nationality, political views, religion or membership in a particular social group (gay etc.). Lots of people have credible fear of gangs but that’s apparently not enough. During the hearing, while she was provided with an interpreter, her form was translated by a bilingual friend who did not do a very professional job and there were a lot of errors, which frustrated the judge. The way the court process goes, you’re asked very specific questions to which a yes/no answer is required. This woman did not have any police or medical reports, newspaper articles, photos or other supporting evidence. She also couldn’t afford a lawyer. Very few asylum seekers without legal representation ever actually win their case. She will have an opportunity for an appeal in 30 days.

Unless the Trump administration takes that away too.

As my anxiety about my medical problems and existential and aging issues mount, I am reminded of how vulnerable half the world is. They, too, have medical problems etc., on top of being without a country. It goes without saying that they are also poor and many who live in the U.S. may not speak English.

This week I’m trying to enjoy my blessings—the beauty of the natural environment, my friend Michelle who’s visiting me, my lovely home. Every day is a fragile gift, every moment a miracle.