Invested in Educating, Learning, and Humanity! by Wanda Heading-Grant

What a trip thus far! The airline fairies weren’t kind to me as I began my journey to Warsaw, Poland, but God certainly was because a mechanical issue was discovered before we boarded. Instead of feeling frustrated, I was just tired and extremely blessed. I arrived a day and a half late but still very much on time to engage with educators, scholars, authors, Holocaust survivors, and many more. I have already eaten way too much but couldn’t turn away from the amazing food. As I took in the smiles, the greetings, and so much information, I couldn’t imagine missing this moment in my life—an unexpected moment that I didn’t foresee. I’ve dedicated over 30+ years to work that serves others, no matter their background, walk, and/or talk, but I hadn’t imagined it would take me to Poland.

Today, I was struck by two statements made by two individuals. One was by our museum tour guide at the Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews, who said, “We in Poland, especially the museum, focus more on the life of Jews and not the death of Jews.” The other statement was about the plight of Jewish people being a “never-ending story—it continues without a conclusion.” These two statements were powerful and thought-provoking because they reminded me of the importance of having respect and empathy for others and recognizing that we are all human, deserving of so much goodness, including being a part of a beloved community. The other statement invoked fairy tale stories and language for me at that moment, making me wonder if there will ever be a “happily ever after” for the world and the diverse human beings in it? I don’t know but I will continue to be hopeful and to do my part for the betterment of us all. 

Peace, Love and Togetherness! 

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