THE PENDULUM by Julie Lindahl We will have a unique opportunity to include the author in our discussion. About "The Pendulum" Julie Lindahl’s memoir of discovery of her grandparents’ role in the SS Nazi elite) in the occupied Poland, and their flight to Latin America where she was born, is a heart-rending journey. It raises many questions beyond any historical and geographical confines, such as what truth is, whether it can be found behind the veil of history, whether later generations have the right and obligation to examine it. Lindahl reminds us about the old adage “let bygone be bygone”, especially if we deal with our own family past. How do later generations handle a legacy of guilt and a burden of shame? She decided to seek forgiveness in the eyes of a few surviving victims of her grandfather’s brutality. The lesson that she learned was far greater and more valuable then forgiveness. “A book of immence courage written with elegance and great power.” -Philippe Sands, author of East West Street”
Questions: chestnuts@beaconhillwomensforum.org