Laura F. Deutsch
freelance writer
My Work
THE BOXHEIM DOCUMENTS
It is too easy to dismiss extremism as foolishness, to ignore warning signs of horrors to come. The German reaction to The Boxheim Documents in 1931 is one example of how dangerous this thinking can be.
THE IMPORTANCE OF COMING IN DAYS
Too often, we dismiss the elderly as unimportant. We forget their contributions and ignore their wisdom. I met an amazing 108 year old woman and found her youthful spirit inspirational.
PURIM AT GOEBBELS’ CASTLE
Joseph Goebbels, Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda, was one of the most vicious Anti-Semites in Hitler’s circle. How ironic that on March 8, 1945, a group of American soldiers celebrated Purim at Goebbel’s vacation home.
ONE STEP AT A TIME
Not every immigrant’s story was a happy one. My great-grandfather struggled and let disappointment rule. Nowadays, too many kids lack determination to work through problems. Perhaps they could use a little Moses.
THE FIRES OF MAY AND JUNE
In April, 1933, book burnings began in Germany. They increased in number and intensity during May and June. These tragedies were not organized by top Nazis. University students led the way.
STAYING ON THE BEACH
When our children grow up, we lose control. How do we react when our adult children make poor choices? Perhaps we need to take a breath and let kids learn from their own mistakes.
THE WICKED SON (Nothing To Do With Me!)
The Wicked Son gets a bad rap at Passover. Is it deserved? And what can we learn from him during a pandemic?
THERE ARE NO HALF PEOPLE
It is too easy slap derogatory labels on mentally ill people. We treat them as less then whole. What does that say about us as a society and how can we act more kindly?
MRS. LOT
God turned Lot’s wife into a pillar of salt because she looked back. Was this a fair punishment?