There are things that are sacred to me. Because they have a special meaning. Like the laying of my grandmother’s Holocaust memorial stone in Neubrandenburg in June – just before I go to Israel for a month. The organisers in Neubrandenburg invite me to give a speech in honour of my grandmother. And I sense that the journey into the past with the dedication of the stone holds an important puzzle piece for me.
So I take a deep dive into the world of the 1930s and breathe in the images I recognise from my father’s and uncle’s notes and stories. And explore what connects me to this woman I never met.
1) Music
My grandmother is a soprano and pianist. It has been said that people would stop in front of the open windows of her house in summer when she is sitting at the piano singing. Even though I don’t play an instrument, life without music is unimaginable for me. I always have my headphones and Spotify fav list with me – on my bike, when I’m writing, at the supermarket and even on the beach in Tel Aviv.
2) An eye for beauty
My grandparents’ table is always set magnificently – with starched table linen, candlesticks, silverware and crystal glasses. Anyone who has ever been to my house for dinner knows that I love to decorate the table festively. With flowers, candles and found objects from flea and antique markets that add a very special charm.
3) Religion
My grandmother gave up her religion and the traditions associated with it for her Christian husband. Now I am retracing her path a little. And I am in the process of taking up the Jewish traditions again and revitalising them through you, dear Savta (Hebrew for grandmother).
I know that you will accompany me on my journey.
The quieter I become, the more I can feel you.