My Michigan - by Olga Chulakova

Below is an article that was published in the Lansing State Journal by our congregation member Olga Chulakova.

For 50 years I lived in Kazakhstan, but now my life is in America. I came here to join my daughter’s family. I never thought that my fortune would change with such an abrupt zigzag and I would land here in Michigan.

How many times I exclaimed: Oh! Ah! Wonderful! Magnificent! Yes, such was my impression of my new life of comfort and security. America became my home and now I feel a part of her.

I live in a beautiful part of Michigan — Dewitt, surrounded by forests, farms and beautifully decorated private homes.

Fall in Michigan is the most beautiful season, marked with many different colors. It is breathtaking to drive between the yellow leaves of birches, the mahogany leaves of oaks, and the red leaves of maples. When I go for a walk on the autumn streets, I always take pictures so I can share my joy with my friends. How can one not like fall?

I am getting to know my America through unique garage sales.

I relish them for the opportunity of seeing people, their lives and their interests. They give me additional experience about life and people. Often, I buy some things that I need and things I don't need. I admire the beautiful landscaping and sometimes I talk with the owners.

I was lucky to get to know America by visiting different states: from California to Florida. It has allowed me to compare ... the high palms, beautiful beaches and others charms of warm states that attract a vacationer, while Michigan is much better for a permanent residence.

Indeed it is possible to compare the prickly cacti with pines or the hot and humid summer days of the south with the fresh air of Michigan?

I compare the high fences in Texas with open green properties of Michigan and I feel as if my soul sings in these vast expanses.

Is it even possible to compare our natural drinking water with the many states that have to use bottled water for everyday purposes?

Even our winter is beautiful and brings with it the chilly, yet enchanting, snow-covered trees and landscapes all around. The long, cold winter of 2014 is an exception. Any winter is good if the roads are clear. Isn’t it?

All of the wealth of nature is wonderful, but even more precious is the kind, hospitable and welcoming people that I live here among. To each their own and I prefer my Michigan.

5-15-2014   Lansing State Journal