Amidst the panic of World War II Europe, a young Jewish man's desperate escape crossing perilous borders magically unfolds through the lens of synchronistic openings. Kept safe and sane by artistic talents and a miraculous fate, survivor's guilt for family loss casts its spell despite an enchanted life of accomplishment. A gripping true story painted with strokes of determination as a destiny is forever altered by unseen protection, perseverance, and the healing power of creative expression.
For almost half a century, details of Bernard's early life were kept hidden, even from his daughters. It was safer that way, afraid of what might occur if he allowed himself to feel.
He didn't share his unimaginable escape from Lithuania, alone at age 17, guided by angel-like synchronicity. He didn't share the horrific loss of family in the Holocaust and his relentless search for even a tiny drop of evidence about their paths.
Hiding behind a successful, busy life with his American family in the deep South, he finally surrendered to the emotional battle of survivor's guilt, haunted by visions of family he ached to honor.
It was time. His secret manuscript belonged with his four adult daughters. Incredible photos and documents accompanied raw words transmitting his story through the darkened eyes of an alone young man scrambling to survive.
Clearly, something magical safeguarded him. Unexpected synchronicities shielded his exit path where armies stood days before. A divine invitation to speak in Washington, DC shed sorrows for astounding connections. Newly discovered artistic talents transformed torment to inspiring beauty.
Enter this cathartic historical memoir with unique perspectives of survival, hope, and triumph, as anguish is transformed by artistry in a mission for self-peace, eclipsed by 50 cents that saved his colorful life.
- Bernard's deeply personal story inspires perseverance to continue on where paths appear impossible. Hold onto hope that magical unknown help is on the horizon.
- Historically informative details and timelines of WW2 theater follow his escape route from Eastern Europe to America, and, later, when sent back from whence he came, discover startling orders given to a non-U.S. citizen drafted into the U.S. military.
- A decades-long search for evidence about family members killed in the Holocaust, reveals bold, assertive actions in a quest for truth and validation of a town and life destroyed.
- Bernard's vivid descriptions invite sensory experiences with his every move:
o When he is sad and lonely, we feel it in our hearts.
o When he is in denial, we understand.
o When he is intrigued, we're eager to jump in and help.
o When he passionately paints to express and release, we join in each stroke of healing.
A touching memoir with lessons of history, artistic healing, and persevering to live life to the fullest.