I remember Elly with such fondness and joy. When we all met in Toronto before our flight out, I think I was expecting a very somber presentation from him about his life in a concentration camp, instead, the focus was on resistance. I love the story about taking the books in the wheelbarrow to the centre of town after the townsfolk were required to bring their books for burning. Instead of going back empty, Elly and his father refilled the wheelbarrow with books they rummaged through in the pile others had already dropped off. These stories have more meaning for me as time passes as I understand the refusal to acquiesce and the courage for counteraction. I think about these stories as we go forward facing the existential threat of climate crisis, which is predicted to cause civil unrest, starvation and millions of people migrating from the low lying flooded areas as well as the coastlines. I carry Elly in my heart to give me hope, courage and confidence in the face of such a perilous future.
Thank you Elly. Thank you Esmere. Together you have built a lovely life and are sharing that strength with others. Thank you for your generosity, your wisdom and kindness.