I never bolt my door either by day or night. I have no belongings of value, only some books, bread for the next few days and water to last the week. If a thief were to enter my home, he would be totally disappointed. If we were to meet face to face, I would show him what I had and invite him to share it. But this had never happened.

If a stranger had lost his way at night and were to knock at my door, he would be welcome to join
me for dinner or supper. I would offer him a place to rest for the night. I would do this not out of duty or obligation but rather in the spirit of common humanity as I could be in the position as he was.

Last week I received a letter from a young female student. She was French and lived in Paris. Do you remember me? I'm Sophie. We met last year. I was on my way to the airport. You saw me talking to the taxi-man. I couldn't afford the $ 30. You handed me the money and gave me your address. I've graduated from Sorbonne in linguistics and philosophy and am teaching in a secondary school. Please contact me if you are here. I shall take you for a meal...