Page 23 - Issue 22

developed an enigmatic perspective. This was located deep
within the Polish forests that had survived the War. There
were stone blocks that outlined the former railway tracks
that traveled through to the concentration camp. Jews from
the Warsaw Ghetto were sent here as well as many other
ghettos throughout Eastern Europe. During the free time to
explore the open field and memorial markers of all the
towns and cities where the Jews came from, I had a weird
sense of calmness. Inside this place of death, I felt like this
place was a sanctuary that welcomed me. To many, it
wouldn't be like this and this kind of feeling would deal with
harsh criticism and opposition. It was clear that my birthday
had taken on a whole new meaning, even in the place where
hundreds of thousands have perished. I had the privilege to
see this construct of human ingenuity that was turned into a
weapon of destruction and torment. The trees gave this
place not only the eerie reminder of taken lives, but one that
spurred rebirth and new life. That's how this camp touched
me in a very radically different manner. Back at the hotel in
Warsaw, my birthday was already known and to finish the
day, my madrichim bought me a cake that my kvutza shared
together. I was with a very grateful group of open-minded
people who were there for me, during our most difficult but
meaningful experience.

The last day was filled with a profound sense of heroism and
resistance. On Dzielna Street was a former center where the
youth movement Hechalutz (the pioneer) was located that
was a worldwide movement. They played a role when the
ghettos were created to resist against the dominating Nazis
by establishing underground newspapers, schools, and
communication in order to preserve their dignity and safety
for Jews in Warsaw. Another important structure that
existed that advocated for youth were orphanages run by a
Jewish educator named Janusz Korczak. Two orphanages
were created and were amongst one of the earliest