256 Grief and Loss Across the Lifespan
I had interests to pursue. I am connected to my synagogue and enjoy vol-
unteering and studying there. The previous summer I had learned to chant torah
and wanted to perfect that skill. I had always wanted to take a pottery class and
learn to throw on the wheel. And friends had become snowbirds so there were
places to visit. My husband is still a long way from retiring so some of this travel
would be alone. Surely between training for the walk, visiting grandchildren,
and pursuing new interests, I could structure my weeks. And I did.
I think the most fascinating part of all this is how each class I took, new
person I met, and my own investigation and desire to be open to new experi-
ences, led me to what I am involved in today. The process helped me learn
about myself. First, I discovered that although I saw myself as artistic and
creative, I was not a potter. After two semesters of classes with a wonderfully
talented instructor and skilled classmates, I realized that throwing clay was
not for me. No one, not even my 5-year-old granddaughter, wanted to eat out
of my lopsided bowls.
But, I began to find new ways. I saw an ad in the paper about the need for
docents at the National Museum of American Jewish History and enrolled in the
training for the position. I met the volunteers who had a more traditional Jewish
background than I, strong women who like myself had been in education before
becoming docents. And I learned so much about American Jewish History.
Although I stopped volunteering after a few years because we had moved fur-
ther from the city, I very soon became involved in another area of Jewish study.
For the past 8 years, I have volunteered at the Gratz College Holocaust Archives
where we prepare Holocaust survivor audio tapes that will be sent to museums
in Israel and Washington, DC. About half the men and women I work with are
themselves survivors. This project has touched my soul in ways that I’m not
sure I even understand. The voices I listen to on these tapes are preserved for
future generations. Their stories are painful and tragic yet give hope for a better
world. And I am a part of that. It is very gratifying.
I increased my time and involvement at my local synagogue by serv-
ing on the Sisterhood executive committee, attending Torah study and a short
story discussion, and singing in the women’s choir. Through a choir member I
learned of a college choir that practiced weekly and performed once a semes-
ter. This has been such a treat as not only is the conductor a true professional
and music scholar, but the chorus is a wonderful blend of college students and
community members and the music is challenging.
From another choir member I learned of a voice teacher whom I have been
studying with now for several years. The teacher is supportive and encourag-
ing. As a result of the private lessons, I have joined with another choir member
and her husband, an amateur pianist, to perform at local senior citizen’s and
assisted living facilities. We have a chance to perform our solos and duets and
lead the groups in sing-a-longs. When I began singing in the temple choir,
I never imagined that it would lead to going out on “gigs.” This almost fills my
fantasy of being a night club singer.
Another aspect of my life that has fulfilled me is being a part of the Meals
on Wheels services in our area. I began as a volunteer, delivering meals to
homebound folks. Presently, I am serving as the President of the Board as well.
Often this community service can be depressing as I am visiting some people
who live in poor conditions. I have become aware of how any of us are a step