This week, I had dinner with the two cutest grandkids in the world. I know some of you may think your grandkids are the cutest, but you’re probably biased. 😊
For me, grandkids bring thoughts about the future and I sometimes wonder: What will the world look like as they grow older? Maybe that is why this picture I saw hit home. In 2015, Jessica Marshall Glatt posted this photo of her three month-old daughter, Harli, holding her great-grandfather’s arm. Her grandfather, Max Durst, is a Holocaust survivor, and his concentration camp tattoo is still visible.
Durst spent the war in multiple concentration camps, including Auschwitz, until he was finally liberated. He was the sole survivor of his immediate family. As Ms. Glatt noted: “These two incredible individuals, my grandparents, Max and Anna Durst, not only survived, but have flourished. They have three children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Their hearts are filled, quite remarkably, with love and not hate. To this day they live life to the fullest.”
She continued, “…the picture is beautiful. It is painful. It is my history and my future inextricably linked. L’dor V’dor (From Generation to Generation). Always remember.”
In a previous Word of Encouragement, I mentioned one of my favorite books “Man’s Search for Meaning”. Written by another Holocaust survivor, Viktor Frankl, the book includes some wonderful reminders such as: “the more one forgets himself—by giving himself to a cause to serve another person to love—the more human they are, the more they actualize themselves.”
I’ve read several articles about how the COVID pandemic has affected us. Some have highlighted the importance of hope, especially when things seem dire. I welcome the opportunity to read stories or watch videos about people who have given themselves to a cause to serve others. These people tangibly demonstrate one of the other lessons Frankl learned: “Any person, regardless of their circumstances, can decide what shall become of them mentally and spiritually.”
And that brings us back to the grandkids. Years ago, I heard a great message, “They’re Watching.” It was based on a poem, “Sermons We See”, by Edgar Guest, and pointed out that all of us are being watched. As I was sitting with my grandkids and watching a riveting edition of Paw Patrol, I noticed Sam was watching me and I was reminded of some of the verses from this great poem.
I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way.
The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear;
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.
I know I get inspired when I see “good put in action.” It gives me hope that even with a pandemic, we can all have a bright future. And it raises a question: What do people see when they're watching us? That is why I love the last stanza from this poem:
One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold;
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told.
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear,
For right living speaks a language which to every one is clear.
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say,
I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.
As we strive to be good examples and look forward with hope for the next generation, may you be encouraged with these words from Jeremiah: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
