“To me, hard times are like hide-and-seek: where is the solution, where is the hope? We can never give up looking for these things because they are just waiting to be found.”
Gidon Lev, an 89-year-old Holocaust survivor, has lived an extraordinary life. At the age of six, he was imprisoned in the concentration camp of Theresienstadt. Liberated when he was ten, he lost at least 26 members of his family, including his father and grandfather.
But Gidon’s life is extraordinary not only because he is one of the few living survivors remaining but because of his lessons learned over nearly a century. His enduring message is of hope and opportunity – to make things better. By sharing his timeless simple belief and truths, Gidon reminds us that we have the power to incrementally improve what is in front of us and leave something better behind us.
His life is a lesson of how to do it, even in the face of astonishing adversity, and Let’s Make Things Better is the calling card of an indomitable spirit.
Here are some key lessons from Let’s Make Things Better by Gidon Lev:
The Power of Positive Action: Even in the face of immense adversity, taking positive action, no matter how small, can lead to significant changes in one’s life and the lives of others.
Resilience in the Face of Trauma: Gidon Lev emphasizes the importance of resilience, highlighting that overcoming past trauma is possible through mental strength, acceptance, and determination.
Gratitude for Life: The book teaches readers the importance of appreciating life’s simple pleasures, no matter the circumstances, fostering a deep sense of gratitude for each day.
Living with Purpose: Finding meaning and purpose, even after great loss or hardship, is crucial. The book encourages readers to live with intention and contribute positively to the world.
Celebrating the Small Victories: Lev advocates for celebrating even the smallest achievements, recognizing that these moments contribute to a larger sense of fulfillment and personal growth.
The Importance of Relationships: Maintaining and nurturing relationships is vital for emotional well-being and personal development. The book shows that human connection can be a great source of strength.
Hope as a Guiding Principle: Above all, Let’s Make Things Better is a testament to the power of hope in transforming lives. The book teaches that hope, combined with action, can change one’s life trajectory.
