Feeling homesick while studying abroad is a common experience, but for Holly Deiaco-Smith, a chance meeting at a French post office turned her loneliness into a lifelong friendship. This unexpected encounter became a pivotal moment in her life, illustrating the power of kindness from strangers.
SCOTT DETROW, HOST:
In the segment “My Unsung Hero,” part of the Hidden Brain podcast series, stories are shared about individuals whose acts of kindness have left a lasting impact. Holly Deiaco-Smith, who studied abroad in northeastern France at 19, recounts her own story. Initially filled with excitement, she soon found herself overwhelmed by culture shock.
HOLLY DEIACO-SMITH:
“I was feeling pretty sad, lonely, isolated. And I could understand the language somewhat, but I was terrible about speaking it. My accent was terrible. People could not understand me. And I was just constantly emotionally exhausted,” she recalls. However, the anticipation of receiving a care package from her mother, including the much-missed Skippy peanut butter, offered her a glimmer of hope.
During her trip to the post office, the language barrier proved to be a challenge. The attendant couldn’t understand her French, and Deiaco-Smith feared she wouldn’t get her package. At this moment of despair, Madame Chantal Jouve, another customer, stepped in and offered assistance in English. In no time, Deiaco-Smith’s package was handed to her.
This encounter didn’t end there. Madame Jouve extended an invitation for Sunday dinner with her family, transforming it into a weekly tradition. These gatherings provided Deiaco-Smith with a welcoming space to practice her French and offered her a sense of home and belonging.
(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)
DEIACO-SMITH:
“To this day, her act of kindness has influenced my life in many ways. I tend to pay attention a little bit more for people who might need help. And I offer kindness and offer that help to a stranger, and I’m forever grateful that Madame Jouve did that for me,” Deiaco-Smith shares.
DETROW:
Now residing in Pennsylvania, Deiaco-Smith remains in contact with Chantal Jouve, decades after their initial meeting. For more stories like this or to submit your own, visit hiddenbrain.org.
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