The stories of survival against unimaginable odds continue to inspire and teach us valuable lessons about resilience, hope, and the human spirit. In this powerful account, we explore the experiences of two survivors – one from the Holocaust and another from the recent Hamas attack – as they share their journeys of survival and their perspectives on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Holocaust Survivor’s Tale: Luck and Kindness
Sam, a Holocaust survivor, attributes his survival to one crucial factor: luck. “If you ask any survivor how come you’re alive today, everybody will use only one word: luck,” he explains. Sam’s luck came in the form of never being separated from his parents during their two-year ordeal in the former Soviet Union.
A pivotal moment in Sam’s survival story involves the kindness of a German woman who, at great risk to her family, saved his life by providing him with milk. This act of compassion underscores the importance of human kindness even in the darkest of times.
Hamas Attack Survivor: A Harrowing Escape
The recent Hamas attack survivor recounts a chilling experience at what was supposed to be a festival. The realization of the attack’s severity hit when they encountered an injured girl named Shani, bleeding profusely. As gunfire erupted, the survivors’ intuition led them to flee in the opposite direction.
Their escape involved a grueling five-hour trek through the desert without food or water. Meanwhile, Shani, along with 19 others, sought refuge in an ambulance. Tragically, terrorists attacked the vehicle with an RPG, resulting in the deaths of 18 people, including Shani.
Trauma and Its Aftermath
Both survivors grapple with the psychological impact of their experiences. The Hamas attack survivor admits to having nightmares and flashbacks, particularly of Shani’s image etched in his mind. Sam, the Holocaust survivor, speaks of forgiving the world that stood by during the Holocaust but not the perpetrators themselves.
Comparing Atrocities: Nazi Brutality vs. Hamas
When asked about the brutality of the Hamas attack compared to the Nazis, Sam states unequivocally that the recent attack was even more brutal. He explains, “Even the Nazis were not that brutal. The Nazis had an ideology; here, with what’s happening right now in the Middle East, that is pure hate.”
The Fight Against Antisemitism and Holocaust Denial
Sam expresses concern about the rise of Holocaust denial, citing a study that claims one in five Gen Z-ers denies the Holocaust happened. He emphasizes the importance of education and awareness, stating, “Israel today is fighting not only for its existence, but it is on the forefront to save the West.”
A Message of Hope and Resilience
Despite the horrors they’ve witnessed, both survivors maintain a sense of optimism. Sam, in particular, remains steadfast in his belief that things will improve, though he acknowledges it may take time. His message to the world is clear and powerful: “We are here to stay, whether you like it or not.”
The Power of Sharing and Healing
The Hamas attack survivor found solace in sharing their story, likening the act of keeping trauma bottled up to a cancer that can kill from the inside. This highlights the therapeutic value of opening up about traumatic experiences.
A Call to Action for Future Generations
Both survivors stress the importance of educating future generations about these atrocities to prevent their recurrence. Sam’s message to young people is particularly poignant: “You are one person, but one person you are the world, and we have to care for each other.”
In conclusion, these survival stories serve as powerful reminders of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of standing up against hate and violence. They challenge us to remain vigilant, compassionate, and hopeful in the face of adversity, ensuring that the lessons of history are never forgotten.
