Asher, a student in Sue Silverstein’s art class at Bishop Maginn High School,  painted his interpretation of Cancer, the astrology sign whose symbol is the Crab, last week. I brought it home Wednesday.

I had it packed with the Sue Silverstein paintings that are going on the walls of the Memory Care Center at the Mansion.

As I was showing Sue’s wonderful paintings to the Mansion director, Kassi, Bonnie, who works in the Mansion office, jumped up and said she  loved it wanted it. I said it was for sale.

She is giving it to her  daughter as a gift.

It took me less than two minutes to sell it, and Bonnie also bought a beautiful Blue painting called “Thumbelina.” (Blue sold her painting “Rose” earlier in the morning.)

There is so much talent in the Silverstein Art Brigade – Blue, Asher, Paw Lway Shee – I’ve sold every painting that they’ve offered up. Might be time soon to find them a real art agent, although selling art is a blessing and great fun.

These kids have absolutely no money and I know it is all going straight to their families, but I hope it is building their confidence.

I didn’t  expect the level of talent we are seeing in these young refugees, who seem to find healing in creativity, it helps them make sense of their scrambled world. It builds confidence and offers real hope.

Asher is a very bright and sensitive poet, I am eager to see more of his poems.

This success is the partial result of my getting to know the young refugees, rather than just write checks for outings and dinners. I am learning their skills, and they are learning to know me and trust me, (Maria also) and that is, I think making all the difference. I can write about them more knowingly and we can all support them more effectively.

Getting close really matters. Being able to talk with someone like Sue has also made a difference, there is no xenophobia in this school, and I am unleashed and guided to do real good.

These young refugees have been through Hell, they all have the creative spark burning brightly. What an honor to show and sell their work.

The other enormous book is Sue Silverstein, who knows these children so well and has been there for them, every day in every way. She has helped and advised me, for which I am eternally grateful.

I am coming to love these young people, and she knows how to connect with them in just the right way.