Debbie Havusha’s Blog – Honoring my Father on Mother’s Day

Honoring my Father on Mother’s Day

“Leave your mother alone; let her have a cup of tea.”  Those were the words my father Leon Broitman (z”l) would say to my kids, when I walked in the door after a long day of work.  My Aba would always say that if I didn’t look after myself I wouldn’t be strong for my kids.  My father would even prompt my husband to make me a cup of tea.  Since my Father’s passing I truly appreciate his persistent instruction to prepare for me a cup of tea.  This was his way of looking out for his daughter.  He was aware how a mother needs to practice good self –care in order to remain strong for child rearing demands.

My father also deeply cared about Jewish continuity and heritage.  He would lecture many people in our Vancouver Jewish Blog for Mothers Day025-2010community about Jewish history.  He delivered a relentless message to many of us declaring that ‘May the 9th ‘was the most important day in Jewish history. He would insist and proclaim:  “You don’t know why!??  May The 9th is the most important day in Jewish history when the German monsters surrendered to the Russians.”  If I would dare challenge his choice of words he would be overcome with wrath and disdain.

My father could be rough when expressing his perspectives and facts, yet he could be so gentle when caring for others’ welfare. His gentleness was especially pronounced when he was in the company of children, whether his grandchildren or others. When meeting children, he would always ask: “What is your name my beautiful boy/girl?” while caressing their heads or placing his warm palms on their shoulders.

Please join me young and old on Sunday, May 10th on Mother’s Day, to honor my father, Leon Broitman (z”l).  Since my father was a walking Jewish Historian, choosing a guided walking tour in the neighborhood of Strathcona where Jews first settled, is the perfect commemoration.

This walking tour is a program offered by the Jewish Museum & Archives of British Columbia (www.jewishmuseum.ca).   It provides information on the historical development of Vancouver’s Jewish community and describes how it has changed over the years.   The tour emphasizes our people- those who conducted their businesses, fulfilled their social obligations, and resided in the neighbourhood.

The history of any community is hardly conceivable without an understanding of those whose lives were shaped by it.  I am certain my obstinate and beloved father would have agreed!

For more info about the walking tour on Sunday May 10 click here

 

Yours in MOMentum,

Debbie Havusha

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