In this story by Naomi Shihab Nye, a bookish fourteen-year-old Palestinian-American girl develops a strong connection with Saleh Hamadi, an ageing Lebanese immigrant. Both share an interest in Kahlil Gibran, and in particular his book The Prophet. The girl is pleasantly surprised when the eccentric Hamadi, who lives a spartan, solitary life, accepts an invitation to join her Christmas caroling group. During the evening, she overhears some life advice she will remember for years as Hamadi comforts a friend who is in tears over being snubbed by a boy. Themes include connection, compassion, perseverance, resilience (life goes on), wisdom.
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