Five Lessons I Learned From Auschwitz — The End

Since that day, Dr. Edie Eger and I have never met again. From internet posts, it appears as if she still speaks, and I wonder how many other lives she changed. She certainly transformed mine.

As I drove home that day, the wall of grief started to crumble, sparked by God’s appointed meeting with Edie. My mixed emotions caused me to lose track of time, while I pulled onto the highway shoulder numerous times, so another round of sobs could rock my body. But healing began, as I took the first steps in the long process of facing my pain.

God handed me a miracle through this woman, and he taught me some very important truths. I find they apply to work as much as to my personal life. My world is a better place, because of the lessons Edie taught me from her time in Auschwitz.

Dr. Edith Eger has shared her story through decades of testimony. She talks about the choices we have in the midst of circumstances beyond our control. She knows the panic of near death at the hands of human monsters. She’s endured the loss of those she loved the most.

But for me, the lessons Edie Eger offered were personal. I use them every day at home and at work.

1.      You have a child inside who needs a parent. You be that parent.

Parents offer us love, and they also teach us boundaries. Sometimes, when I’m tempted to procrastinate, I mother myself with these words, “Don’t leave the room until everything’s cleaned up.” This is my way of sticking a project out, until the job’s done. I also brush the tears off my face, and give myself hugs.

2.     Give yourself forgiveness. Be patient while you learn.

Often, we hold onto grudges as punishment for those who offended us, but in reality, they do not suffer – we do. However, forgiveness is a process that requires more than decision, it also takes time. Exercise patience with yourself while you learn to release bitterness and enjoy the freedom of a peaceful environment.

3.     Trust decisions based on truth. Stand your ground with hard choices.

Facts don’t change, but perceptions can. If you’ve honestly evaluated your decisions, and know they are based on truth versus pure emotion, stand on them. Do not question what you know is real and right.

4.     Keep walking. One step at a time.

Life gets tough, especially when we’re weary. Don’t give up when you are overwhelmed. Pick up your feet, and resolve to take one more step. Each move forward propels you closer to the mouth of the dark tunnel. Jesus will catch you on the verge of collapse. Ultimately, you will step into the light if you don’t stop.

5.    Offer your talents to the world without expectation. Receive the overflow.

Because of various experiences, we often bury our dreams. Don’t let fears, negative opinions, lack of resources, or past hurts, keep you from taking action. One choice at a time let Christ lead you into the promised land of a purposeful life. If God is for you, no one can stand against you!

If Edie can survive the Holocaust with her attitude, then we can take one more step toward the detailed plan God created before we were born. Keep marching.

Anita FreshFaith @ Work

Holocaust Survivor Parts 1 & 2 (Total 18 minutes of video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wd__-GOZVUI&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpUmqWjKIIc

Anita Agers-Brooks is a Business Coach, Certified Personality Trainer, Communications Specialist, speaker, and writer. She lives in Missouri with her family.

Contact her via anitabrooks.com or anita.freshfaith@gmail.com