A Gift From My Mother

My mother wanted to go to college, but the war broke out and she went to work instead. She was intelligent and curious and probably would have enjoyed a long career, if times were different. But, she loved us fiercely and was dedicated to her family.⁣
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She grew up knowing her parents left Lublin and their families forever and suffered the pain of losing them in the Holocaust. My mother never forgot her grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins and in 1990 sent testimonials to Yad Vashem Archives, hoping someone would contact her with information about them.⁣
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Five years after my mother passed away, my brother and I were contacted by researchers who found those testimonials and who eventually found us. I've written about this extraordinary experience and my travels to Europe to learn more about my family.⁣
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So on Mother’s Day, I thank my mom for her gift. 💓🌹