Terezin

POSTED BY KYLE

The tone of the morning was appropriately set by the ominous clouds overhead and the brisk air. Once we left the comfort of the bus we were met with countless gravestones and a Star of David in the distance. We quickly realized the aftermath of Terezin.

Our morning was long, wandering in and out of holding cells and sleeping quarters. None of us could imagine the life those many people were forced to live. Some of the rooms held hundreds of people, but the cold, barren rooms were only as big as an average classroom.

It was difficult to comprehend the destruction that had occurred in the very rooms we stepped into and out of freely. Unlike the people who inhabited Terezin decades ago, we were allowed to leave. When the past became too real we could move on.

We saw, felt, and learned that morning. The cement walls still tell a story. The courtyards still hold the grief. The art and museum helped us to learn and not forget.

We and many others left Terezin with a greater understanding. Thousands come and go each year. It is remarkable to think that in the 40’s thousands came, and only a handful left.