After weeks of planning for the subzero temperatures of Eastern Europe - stuffing thick sweaters and down coats into suitcases whilst keeping in mind the advice to “pack lightly” - we finally landed in Vilna this morning!
For many, this trip is their first to Europe, and for some, their first outside the country, so you can imagine the excitement. Every possible cultural difference, from the quiet European demeanor to the expensive bathroom fees, fascinated us.
Just minutes from the Vilnius airport was the first stop: the Jewish cemetery where some of the greatest tzadikim are buried, notably the Vilna Gaon and Rav Chaim Ozer. Our tour guide, Rabbi Segal, shared inspiring stories that depicted the unyielding kindness of the Gedolim toward their fellow Jews during a period plagued by hate and exclusion.
Next, we traveled to the Vilna Ghetto. Underneath years of demolition and layers of gentrification, the stamp of Jewish life proudly survived for us to see. We explored the narrow cobblestone streets, entranced by the prospect that the soles of our shoes are tracing those of many of our ancestors. We marveled at the site of where Hannah Hydorn’s great-great-grandfather’s shop once stood. We gazed at the now empty patch of land that once boasted several synagogues before the Nazis set them to flames. We followed the steps of the Ger Tzedek through the streets of the Ghetto and into the village square where his death would merited a Kiddush Hashem. We instantly felt a connection to the streets of a foreign country.
Complaints of the cold dissipated—we had ignited a sense of warmth. Each site provoked another story, illuminating a Jewish History we equate with grayscale photographs to one of vivid color. Today, that history was transformed into a palpable reality, and will continue to do so throughout our trip.
We are so excited to share with you more reflections of our journey to Poland, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic!
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