My mom Chasia (“God spared”),
Holocaust survivor visiting from Israel,
Apprehensively asked me if
It was safe to board a train
Filled with Gentiles.
Contemplating Travel
in Illinois
This poem appears in the May 2023 issue.
Since 1900, the Christian Century has published reporting, commentary, poetry, and essays on the role of faith in a pluralistic society.
© 2026 The Christian Century.
Contemplating Travel
in Illinois
My mom Chasia (“God spared”),
Holocaust survivor visiting from Israel,
Apprehensively asked me if
It was safe to board a train
Filled with Gentiles.
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