A Slice of America

MARTHA: It’s a lovely afternoon, isn’t it, Javier? The sun feels so nice.

JAVIER: Yes, Martha. The weather here in California is very pleasant. It is one thing I like very much about living in the US.

MARTHA: You’ve been here for about six months now, right? How are you settling in?

JAVIER: It is… different. People are very friendly, like you, Martha, and I appreciate that. But sometimes I still feel a little lost.

MARTHA: What feels difficult? Maybe I can help.

JAVIER: Small things, sometimes. Like… the way people do things. Back home, we had a much closer community. Everyone knew their neighbors. Here, people seem more… independent.

PRIYA: (Walks up) Hi Martha! Oh, hi Javier. How are you both doing?

MARTHA: Priya! So nice to see you. Javier was just telling me a bit about his experiences moving here.

PRIYA: Oh, you’re new to the US, right Javier? Welcome! It definitely takes some time to get used to things.

JAVIER: Yes, it does. Martha was saying people are independent here. It is true. Sometimes I miss the feeling of everyone helping each other like a big family.

PRIYA: I understand that. I felt the same when I first moved here. But I’ve also found that people are willing to help, you just sometimes need to ask. And maybe it’s not the same as back home, but there are communities here too – through hobbies, church, volunteer work…

MARTHA: Priya’s right. I’ve lived here for over twenty years, and I’ve made wonderful friends through my gardening club and the neighborhood watch. It might take a little time to find your niche, Javier. What are your interests?

JAVIER: I enjoy playing soccer very much. And I like hiking.

PRIYA: Oh, there are many soccer leagues around here for adults! And the hiking trails in the nearby hills are amazing. You should check them out. I can even recommend some groups if you’d like.

JAVIER: Really? That would be very kind. I have been wanting to play soccer again.

MARTHA: See? Priya’s already helping! And there’s a hiking group that meets right here in the park every Saturday morning. They’re a friendly bunch.

JAVIER: This is good to know. Sometimes I just feel unsure about how to find these things.

PRIYA: It’s okay. Everyone feels that way when they move to a new place. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there a little. Say hello to people, join activities that interest you. You’ll build your community here.

MARTHA: Exactly. Chino Hills is a great place to live. Give it some time, Javier. You’ll find your slice of America here.

JAVIER: (Smiling) Thank you, Martha. Thank you, Priya. I feel a little more hopeful now. Maybe I will check out that soccer league.

PRIYA: Definitely do! Maybe I’ll even see you on the field sometime.

(All three smile at each other, a sense of connection forming. The scene fades.)