When it was released on DVD in 2016, I discovered the Lithuanian film The Summer of Sangailė (original title: Sangailės vasara) by Alantė Kavaitė. The movie was a revelation to me. At first, I was drawn to the love story between two girls. I never imagined that a love affair would blossom between Lithuania and me after seeing this film. I loved it so much that I decided to learn the Lithuanian language! It was a way for me to extend the magic of the film for years.
I also wrote to Aistė Diržiūtė-Rimkė, one of the two main actresses in the film. We then exchanged some long and lovely messages over the years. One day, when I told her about my plans to travel to the Baltic countries, I was just hoping she would wish me a safe journey. I was far from the mark! She made a very touching and unexpected suggestion: to meet each other! Whether I met her or not, such a sign of consideration meant the world to me.
A few months later, I was incredibly lucky that the dates of my trip were compatible with her hectic schedule. I met Aistė face to face on a summer evening that I will remember for the rest of my life. Aistė is one of the most endearing, generous, sensitive and humble people I have ever met.
To this day, I can still say that I have never felt as welcome in Lithuania as I have in any other country in the world.
Actress and journalist Aistė Diržiūtė-Rimkė and me in 2022 in Vilnius
HELLO LITHUANIAN CULTURE 
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