Leyla Eskender
On the evening of October 28, 2024, I had the distinct honor of attending a gathering hosted by a family I deeply respect—a family I’ve known for many years, embodying kindness, warmth, and generosity in every way. This was more than an event; it was a heartfelt reflection of their genuine spirit and the close bonds they have fostered within our community. The atmosphere was inviting and filled with warmth, where everyone, myself included, felt not only welcomed but truly embraced.
In this sincere setting, I had the pleasure of meeting several remarkable individuals, including Conservative Party candidate Shilan Zade, whom I’d known online but was meeting in person for the first time, and her dedicated campaign manager, Tara Dachek, whose graciousness and integrity left a lasting impression. A member of parliament was also present, alongside familiar friends like Mahdi Recep and Jehfer Tovi, as well as other wonderful attendees I was fortunate to meet.
From the moment we entered, the hosts made each of us feel truly welcomed, greeting everyone with open arms and warm smiles that immediately set a relaxed and inviting tone. Once we had all gathered, they brought out an assortment of tea and refreshments, meticulously prepared and beautifully arranged a spread that spoke not only to their attention to detail but to the deep care they hold for each of their guests. The tea, rich and aromatic, was served with such attentiveness that it felt like a small gesture of kindness with every cup. The treats, lovingly made, were offered with the same thoughtfulness, as though each plate was a personal invitation to sit back, relax, and savor the moment. The evening unfolded beautifully as we shared stories, ideas, and laughter, each moment highlighting the unique sense of unity and fellowship within our community. This wasn’t a formal gathering but a coming together of hearts and minds, bound by mutual respect and gratitude.
The presence of the candidate and the parliament member brought a unique energy to the gathering. Both were not only engaging but genuinely interested in getting to know everyone there. Rather than focusing on their positions or speaking about policy, they interacted with us as friends, sharing stories, laughing, and immersing themselves in the joy of the evening. Their approachability and openness made everyone feel at ease, turning what could have been a formal interaction into a lively, friendly exchange.
At times, the candidate and parliament member joined smaller groups within the gathering, listening intently, and responding with a warmth and kindness that was deeply genuine. Their laughter was infectious, and they brought a lightheartedness to the room that encouraged everyone else to relax and enjoy the moment. They didn’t dominate the evening but instead blended in, making connections and showing genuine interest in the lives and stories of those around them.
One particularly touching moment was when the candidate introduced herself to the daughter of our hosts. She shared her story of finding the courage to run for office, explaining how the encouragement she received from others helped her believe in herself. The way she spoke to the young lady was gentle and sincere as if she wanted to pass on that same encouragement to inspire her. It was a quiet but powerful interaction that left a lasting impression on all of us, especially the younger guests, who saw a real example of leadership built on compassion and authenticity.
Having known this family for so long, I’ve come to admire their quiet, selfless way of giving. They don’t simply host; they pour their hearts into making each guest feel valued. Throughout the evening, I watched as they moved from guest to guest, ensuring everyone was comfortable, offering refills, and engaging in sincere conversations that showed how much they genuinely cared. This wasn’t just a gathering—it was an experience shaped by their generosity, one that reminded each of us of the importance of connection, hospitality, and kindness.
By the end of the night, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This gathering wasn’t just an evening of hospitality—it was a reminder of the beauty of human connection, kindness, and the strength of community. As I walked out into the cool night air, I realized how much events like this mean. They bring us together, encourage us to share, and remind us of the power of simply being present with one another. It wasn’t just the conversation or the presence of respected guests that made the evening memorable, but the shared moments of laughter, stories, and genuine human connection that lingered long after. This gathering will stay with me as a reminder of the quiet strength found in kindness, the joy of shared experiences, and the importance of nurturing the bonds that keep us grounded in community and friendship.
My heartfelt thanks to Muhammad Jangir, his wonderful wife Amira, and their lovely daughter Pershang, whose warmth and generosity made the evening truly unforgettable.
