When in 1970 my two boys and myself landed at O’Hare Chicago we joined a crowd of passengers who were
orderly approaching the immigration officers. Than, when I was near the officer in charge of our line,
one officer approached me and in Serbo-Croatian asked me if my name was Ljiljana. He than told me that Zorka
is waiting for me up on the balcony.
I didn’t know any Zorka in Chicago. All I could think of was that the
American police was watching me. Already, I thought in disbelief. Later, I had
a picture taken of me. Officers were moving quietly, efficiently and soon a
handsome, tall elderly black officer approached me and handed me one card with
my picture on it. "Welcome to this country" he tolled me smiling.
I took the card hardly looking at him. In a country I was coming from who ever stands behind a desk, a window,
who ever is serving you acts as power and power doesn’t have to be polite even less smiling.
My choice of words in such an occasion was very pour. I didn’t say anything.
But now when ever I meet someone who had come to the United states with intend to stay I know what to say.
I remember an elderly, handsome, black officer and I say the same kind words I, many years ago, heard from you.
I say “Welcome to this country” This is my way of thanking all good people who encourage others in their trying times.
To The future!!
As for Zorka and her family they were simply newly acquired friends. The immigration officer was their friend. All good people. Yes you are right, the card that was handed to me was a green card.
