A Phone Call To Remember

Last night I got a phone call that I will never forget. My cell phone rang at quarter to 8, and I didn't recognize the out of state number that was coming in. I answered. On the other end was a voice I immediately recognized due to a documentary I had seen. It was Ina Polak. A Holocaust survivor. I was humbled beyond words and speechless. I couldn't believe that this sweet woman was taking time out of her busy schedule to call simple, unimportant me. I told her of my disbelief, and she simply and sweetly responded, "I told you I would call you, and I always keep my promises!"

As I mentioned before, I knew this voice due to a very moving documentary I had seen called "Steal A Pencil For Me." It was initially a book compiled by the daughter of Jack and Ina Polak, in which she had gathered and translated letters that Jack and Ina exchanged during the Holocaust as they were in a relocation and concentration camp. It tenderly tells of their love story as they experienced incomprehensible pain and suffering.

Our conversation was fairly short and somewhat simple. Nothing overly profound was discussed. But at one point I became choked up with emotion, as I told her how much I admired her and how honored I was to be talking with her. I knew that I was speaking to one of the greatest souls I have ever encountered. After all she has been through, she remains positive and happy. Having experienced all she has, she would have every right to be angry and bitter at everyone and everything. But she is not. She is full of love and light, wisdom and humor. I believe I have many lessons to learn from this incredible woman...

I encourage every single one of you to watch it or to read the book. You can view it on NetFlix (that is where I came across it), or you can purchase it (it is SO worth buying) on Amazon or through Barnes and Noble.

Here is the link to the website