It’s Gratitude Monday, and Thanksgiving week. I’ve
just got back from a few hours at Terezín, the (Austrian) imperial garrison
town that the Nazis turned into a “model” Jewish ghetto and transit camp. Model
ghetto, because Terezín was what was trotted out for inspectors from the
International Red Cross to demonstrate how good life was for the residents.
Transit camp because most of the 150,000 inmates who arrived there between 1941
and 1944 eventually were transported “to the East”. And death.
I’ll write about it when I can process the
experience. But today, which started out with snow, I’m grateful that my trip
to and from Terezín was via heated motor coach, with comfortable seats. And
that I started out after an excellent breakfast, which saw me through the day.
And I was free to come and go as I pleased.
I returned to my hotel, which (regardless of
the wi-fi and the Vikings) is comfortable and elegant. I’ve got a kettle and
tea in my room, and a marble-lined bathroom.
I went to Terezín because it was one of the two
reasons for me coming to Prague, and I was able to make this trip, regardless
of any anxieties I might have about my life or my job. Regardless of the
limitations in my life, I have extraordinary possibilities, which I frequently
lose sight of.
Today I see them, and I’m grateful.
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