Chapters 17, 18 & Endnote: Bit By Bit

And we do as he taught us. We hold our breaths, then let them out, bit by bit.

I think this says a lot about the whole process of immigration. “...bit by bit.” That really jumps at me because it feels like Abba is almost saying immigration is hard, but wait it out, and you will be rewarded. Nadira did breathe, she did wait it out, and she got through it. She held her breath until there was room on the surface, and she emerged, shining rays of light upon herself and her family. Aisha, who didn’t breathe, stayed home and didn’t take action. She was scared, and didn’t hold her breath. She let it all out, and drowned in her fears the moment things stopped being easy for her. I think that the family will feel safe again... Bit by bit...