KADDISHEL
A Life Reborn
with the stove. They left me some wood and a little food. Maybe they felt bad leaving me behind, saying, “We’re sorry — we have to run because the people next to us just got killed the other day, and we might be next. But we can’t drag you, we can’t take you with us. We promise that when we get to the other side, we’ll do whatever we can for you.” Although they did not say so, I think the leaders of the group re- alized that the people with rifles on the other side of the river were my relatives — Uncle Usher, Aunt Chava, and their sons Boris and Alex (Shalom). My uncle, who had always been respected — farmers used to tip their hats to him instead of setting their dogs to chase and bite him — was said to be “ruling” that area. Diodia knew my family and uncle well, and, if I am correct, the moment he heard the name “Usher Edelman,” he became fearful; he knew that if my uncle held him responsible for what had happened to me, his life would not be worth much. He had not allowed me into his hut, not even in the most bitter cold, not even to just warm up a bit. He was a simpleton and very cruel. Perhaps he thought he would have to answer for my life if the truth was revealed. Later, my suspicions were partially confirmed by his behavior. Although many people in the group came to my uncle for food or favors, he and his family never did, perhaps be- cause they were afraid. When the group left me behind, they said they would see what could be done. One of the men said, “Maybe someone will come back and get you.” I think he meant my uncle. They left me there, all alone in the woods. Fortunately, the hut was very strong. Wolves and coyotes came and scratched on the door all night. They became brazen because there was no one to frighten them off. I guess they knew there was a living person in - side. I was very frightened. But eventually I realized they were not able to break through the door and got used to the fact that they would come every night. Anyway, there was nothing I could do since I could not walk.
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