ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the concept of goral, a Hebrew word translated as “fate” or “predestination”, and its role in shaping my personal choices of Holocaust-related postmemorial work on both the personal and professional levels. It relates to why I chose to specialize in Holocaust Studies, founded the first “Second Generation” Holocaust organization in Israel, temporarily left Holocaust Studies, and eventually became the Director of the Finkler Institute of Holocaust Research at Bar-Ilan University. It discusses the difference between destiny and predestination, the need for individuality while making decisions, the role of being a “Second Generation” memorial candle, and various outside influences on postmemorial work.
