What Students are Saying
What
Educators, Clergy, Parents and Others are Saying About "Personal memoirs have no equal in their weight of truth and memory - yours have educated so many. May you continue to tell and retell your story for years and years." - Elie Wiesel, Nobel Laureate "Your work in our schools is deeply appreciated. May God bless you for your kindness." - John Cardinal O'Connor, Archbishop of New York "I am (also) deeply grateful for your participation in the Shoah Foundation's project. Your dedication to Holocaust awareness is incredibly important and is so meaningful to ensure that future generations will be able to learn about the Holocaust from those who survived." - Steven Spielberg “It was my distinct pleasure to introduce you
before an audience of 1500 students at the Osceola County School for the
Arts in Kissimmee, Florida last month. As I mentioned in my introduction,
your story is one that must be told and retold generation to generation. I
recounted your story to my family that very night at the dinner table, so
they could be inspired by your life to show love, respect, and tolerance
for differences in others. “It is difficult to express the gratitude that we feel for the time you were able to spend with us at Weedsport today, May 22, 2008. Marion, your account of your experiences is vivid, yet sensitive to your audience. The message that you deliver over and over, one of tolerance and caring, is so important for our young people. You are able to tie together your experiences and your message in a way that is powerful and leaves your listeners with hope. The comments and feedback throughout the day have been outstanding. Please know that you made a difference at Weedsport today!” – Carrie Widrick, Middle School Principal & Helen White, High School Principal, Weedsport, NY "-------- As I watched the faces of the audience, I could see many of our less fortunate students hanging on to every word. I know they were thinking about the problems they face, and the possibilities presented before them. You gave them hope that day. Hope they will carry with them during the tough times we all face.” - Rina Beach, Curriculum Director, Lawrence Public Schools, Lawrence, NY “Your message of tolerance and humanity is one that my students took to heart as they reflected on your presentation throughout the day. In addition, I was touched by your spirit and your devotion to promoting peace in the world through tolerance, despite the adversity you faced as a child. Your messages were strong and valuable. The importance of hope, kindness, tolerance and respect are ideas that they will not soon forget. ------May your presentations continue to produce more “good” young women and men.” - Debbie Habshoosh, Woodmere Middle School, Woodmere, NY "I was flipping channels last night and saw you on television. It brought back the wonderful memory of your visit to Utah and all the schools the Rhees family are involved with. During the program, I remembered the commitment I made to myself during your visit to Utah to be a more positive cheerful person, to be more of an influence for good among the children I work with, to love my wife and children more completely every minute of every day, and to thank God for the wonderful blessings He shares with us in whatever form He deems to be in our best interest. Thanks for your wonderful influence on children and adults everywhere." - David J. Rhees, Principal, Plain City Elementary School, UT "...having Marion come to southernmost Illinois was probably the best thing the council had ever done....Marion Blumenthal Lazan is committed to telling her story to as many people as she can. Her touching talk is from the heart and captures the audience. In a perfectly quiet, large auditorium I did not see one individual leaving during the speech or visit with a neighbor. She received two standing ovations that night and signed books for nearly two hours. With each autograph, she spoke encouraging words, and often followed her signings with hugs." - Beth Arthur, President, Illinois Reading Council, IL "Someone once said 'God danced the day you were born.' Truly, in your case, He did. You are a natural teacher and healer in our cruel yet delicate world. ... hope you'll smile and know that you touched so many people with your gracious manner and hopeful enthusiasm." - Nancy Shew, Teacher, Genoa Middle School, Westerville, OH "I will never forget seeing, watching, and hearing you in our school
library today. It will become one of the rare moments that one cherishes
and keeps close in their heart. It will take a long time to fully absorb
all that you said if anyone can ever really absorb all that you lived
through. You touched my heart with your gentleness, dignity, grace and
wisdom. Every person who has ever been with you has been enriched. The
children were so totally engaged in listening to you and you have a
remarkable style in relating to them. “In my 22 years of teaching I can assure you that no visit by anyone has ever had more of an impact with my class than yours. I will continue to spread your message to my classes as long as I teach. ----God speed in your visits across this great country.” – Mark Bedenbaugh, Social Studies Chairman, Pelion High School, Pelion, SC “I don’t think I can express our pleasure in having you visit our small Montana communities. Youth Enhancement Services has bee a topic of conversation because of your wonderful message. We have been working with the schools on teaching virtues to their students since the beginning of the year. In 3 days, your presence validated what we not only tell the schools and their students, but community members also. For that, we thank you! ….. God certainly blessed all of us that got to spend time with you.” - Leslie Kesler, Coordinator, Youth Enhancement Services, Choteau, MT "I just want to tell you how much your presentation yesterday meant
to me and my students! It was such a pleasure to meet you and hear your
remarkable story! I was so touched by your spirit and love for humanity,
in spite of the atrocities you suffered. God has surely blessed all those
who come in contact with you! I especially appreciate the message you
left with the students of tolerance and love for each other. It would be
a wonderful world if we could all live by those principles! “It was an honor to meet you, you are an incredible woman. You are much more than a Holocaust Survivor with a fascinating story; you are a GREAT motivational speaker as well. People like you make this world a better place and no one that hears you speak will ever forget you." - Phyllis Farrow, Jewish Federation of Fresno, CA "--- you must know that very few people in our lives have affected us for good as you. We have had the privilege of being in the same room or shaking the hand of our spiritual leaders; we experience the same sense and degree of goodness and extraordinary spirituality with you as we do with them. As one spends time with you, one feels the depth and strength of your character -- we believe that you are angels sent from God. We wish you well in your quest to achieve peace in our world -- if the world were simply to have conversation with you each morning as it awakes, it truly would be a perfect place. Thank you for touching our lives. May God bless and keep you!" - Stu Howell, School Administrator, Ogden, UT "The students and teachers here at the 7th Grade Center have been talking about you and your story since you left. You have certainly touched our lives in a special way. You have also touched hearts, including my own. I am sure you affect people like this all the time, but personally it takes a truly genuine person with a phenomenal personality and strong values to earn my respect. You have done so and rank at the very top, sharing that "honor" with Pope John Paul. I will never forget you and God willing, I pray we meet again." - Sue Spence, Royersford 7th Grade Center, Royersford, PA “It was a “great experience to bring the Catholic and Jewish school students together for this unique opportunity. To hear this Jewish person tell us her terrible experience in such a loving way, you truly feel that she is God’s spokesperson. She’s a true prophet.” - Miss Marianne Cote, Principal, St. Joseph School, New London, CT "Yesterday our middle school hosted Marion Blumenthal Lazan, a Holocaust survivor and co-author of Four Perfect Pebbles. Not only does she tell her family's story, but stresses the themes of tolerance, hope and perseverance. With sensitivity and patience, she captivates students. Her presentation echoed the way we would like students to treat each other. She would also be a great speaker on Human Rights! I recommend her without reservation." - Betty Wolfe, LMS, Avon Middle School, Avon, CT "As a middle school teacher of Catholic Theology, I was awestruck by your beautiful testimony of faith. I have read different accounts of the Holocaust, but hearing it first-person from a survivor was quite touching. Thank you for sharing your story, even though it is a difficult one to tell. You are truly living out your calling by God to share His message of love and tolerance in our world. May He bless you with many more years of blessing others with your story!" - Judy Ruesewald, Theology Teacher, Bishop T.K. Gorman Catholic School, Tyler, TX "First and foremost, I would like to thank you and Nathanial for your visit. Often times when I have had a speaker or organized a presentation, it is not certain as to whether or not the lives of our staff and students have been impacted in any truly meaningful way. This was not the case with your visit. During that very day it was clearly evident that your presence was having a strong effect on so many people. Your books are continuing to sell, your story is being told and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Students, teachers and administrators have been so touched by your presence and are commenting on how privileged they feel to have met you." - Diane Miller, Library Media Specialist, Lindenhurst High School, Lindenhurst, NY “You have a powerful message that both students and adults need to her. Thank you for emphasizing the importance of treating people with respect, having compassion, and not blindly following someone else. These are characteristics that the school district is also stressing with students.” - Dr. Michael Jacobsen, Superintendent, Weber School District, Ogden, UT "I just wanted to take a few minutes and let you know that you are truly making a difference in the lives of our children, and you remain in our thoughts and prayers." - Leronda Savage, Teacher, Lafayette Middle School, Oxford, MS “Last week our district had the
pleasure of hosting Marion Blumenthal Lazan, author of Four Perfect
Pebbles and a holocaust survivor. Her presentation was riveting as she
spoke for an hour without props or any A-V assistance. She was generous
with her time and very professional. The experience was so gripping for
our students that our Social Studies dept. is considering adding this book
to its
"What an honor it was to get to know you both today. I am in awe of
who you are and what you are doing for the millions of lives you are
touching. Please keep in touch and let me know if I can do anything to
further your cause. "Dear Marion and Nathaniel, “You kept nearly 700 high school students riveted to your voice and your story for an hour – not an easy thing to do. I know it was not only the content of your story but also the warmth and power of your personality that held us all.” - Susan Frazin, LMC Director, Freshman Building, Neuqua Valley High School, Naperville, IL “They (the 6th graders) were so enthralled with your presentation that they couldn't believe a little more than an hour had gone by. You certainly captivated the audience. Your message was clear to all who were listening and certainly one they need to hear over and over again.” - Pat Visconti, Harrisville Central School, Harrisville, NY "Our school recently got an award of CT middle
school of the year! As part of the evaluation process, select students
were interviewed and asked their favorite part of the school. One of the
answers was: The assembly when the Holocaust speaker came. That's you!
That's proof that you do indeed make an impact. We're looking forward to
your visit next year." - Betty Wolf, Media Specialist, Avon
Middle School, CT "Mrs. Lazan, thank you so much for your wonderful, moving speech given at Lomond View Elementary in Pleasant View. I teach 5th graders at Plain City Elementary and had the privilege of attending with my students. We all were mesmerized by your message. Thank you for being such a strong example of so many virtues; kindness, tolerance, and inner strength being just a few. I'm sure all of the children and adults present took with them some lasting impressions to ponder. Most sincerely" - Kathy Stobaugh, Plain City Elementary School, Plain City, Utah "The positive feedback I've already received from students and faculty is unprecedented in my long experience with school speakers. But my favorite part was getting to meet you. There are times when you know you've been blessed to spend time with certain people, and yesterday was one of those times for me." - Sandy Reed, Andover High School Librarian, Andover, KS "I have read your book twice, and loved it very much, but to hear your voice, and see you before me!....I am so pleased that my Student/Parent Organization has approved my request to have you, as living history, come and relate in person, your story to our students." - Laura Merck, Fifth Grade Teacher. Vernon Twp. Schools, NJ
“Marion
Lazan, author of Four Perfect Pebbles,
certainly made an impact! Each of her four presentations was completely
filled and larger rooms were quickly sought as word spread of her powerful
message regarding her experiences as a Holocaust survivor. In addition to
being a lovely lady, Marion is a living reminder of the power of a
positive attitude, the courage of a survivor, and of the necessity of
utilizing well each day of life.”-
The Illinois Reading Council COMMUNICATOR "We were all most impressed by your story and your message of tolerance, perseverance and courage in the face of adversity. As I sat on the stage and watched our students during your talk, and later listened to their questions, I realized what a profound effect you were having on them. In all the assemblies I've attended throughout these past twenty-four years, I don't think I've ever seen a group so quiet and intent on the speaker. Many of them had not read your story, Four Perfect Pebbles, but have been moved by your visit to purchase the book or read our library copies. Other students have been inspired to learn more about the Holocaust and will take your story with them throughout the rest of their lives. May God keep you in his hands." - Chris Turner, Librarian/Media Specialist, Oak Mountain Middle School, Birmingham, AL "Four
Perfect Pebbles was an outstanding pedagogical aid in framing the sequence
of events of World War 11. It is written in an age appropriate style that
students from fourth to eighth grades can relate to."-
Donna Folino, Holy Rosary School, Staten Island, NY "...your visit was the most valuable event of the year and maybe of some of the lives of our children..." - Rebecca Dan, Adams Consolidated School, Monroe, IN "…to say
that I found it (Four Perfect Pebbles) very moving and inspirational would
be an understatement. The story confirmed what I felt when I had the
pleasure of meeting you; that yours is a spirit of the most precious kind,
a true survivor with an amazing message that you have so unselfishly
chosen to share with the world."
- Anthony Lipschitz, Vice-President, "I can
only speak of Ms. Lazan in superlatives. This kind and peaceful lady
captured the hearts and minds of the entire school; she remains the talk
of the school because of the effectiveness of her presentation, her
sincerity and her passion for the truth; all the while her attitude was
optimistic and non-judgmental." - Rev. Msgr. Kieran McHugh, Pope John 23rd Regional High School,
Sparta, NJ "The
entire school community of Resurrection has been touched forever by your
words and by the challenges you presented to us that day."
- Harold Nielsen, Principal, Resurrection Grammar School, Rye, NY "Your
presentation was inspiring and captivated the children… We can only hope
that this generation of children will take to heart your message and will
build a better and more tolerant world." - Robert T. Bond, Headmaster Lower School, Saint
Edward's School, Vero Beach, Fl "As I
stood in the rear of the auditorium observing how intent so many young men
were on your words, stories and journey, I recognized that in some
meaningful way you may well have turned the compass of their thought
process…. While perhaps you
think of yourself as a lecturer first, I can assure you that you are
equally a teacher."
W. Brewster Ely 1V, Headmaster, Town School for Boys, San Francisco, CA "My
students were able to see that strength can be an internal thing, not just
one that is seen on the outside. This especially affected the girls. You
sent them the message that they can endure whatever life throws at them.
That to believe in yourself, your own personal strength and to stay
focused on your goal, that anything can be achieved." - Christina Hoop, 8th Grade teacher,
Virden Middle School, Virden, IL "I know
the girls will not forget your message to them a they grow up and learn
more about world history, current events and human relations. They will
remember your story, and the warm, loving person that you are…. Your
exhortation to never stop trying, and the importance of attitude are
messages with universal significance, and our children need to hear them
over and over again."
- Becky Mather, Quality Learning Consultant, Mississippi Bend Area
Education Agency, Bettendorf, IA "Thank you
very much for your wonderful presentation to the 7th and 8th
graders at Stuart Hall. You were an inspiration to them and you are an
inspiration to the world." - Nat Wilburn, Dean, Stuart Hall School for Boys, San Francisco, CA "Thank you
so much for sharing your story with us! Your experience and message of
hope has touched all of us! We are honored to have had you at St.
Cecelia."
- Sister Marilyn Miller, Principal, Saint Cecilia School, San Francisco, CA
"I wanted to thank you (Arcola Middle School) for arranging the
speaker yesterday. My daughter "I would
like to take the opportunity to thank you not only for sharing your story,
but also for stressing the importance of compassion, tolerance, and
respect for others. I was amazed by the way you touched these children.
You seem to possess such inner beauty, strength and gentleness. It isn't
everyday that young people are able to meet a real life heroine." - Barbara Chagniot, Parent, Saint Cecelia
School, San Francisco, CA "I knew
your talk would be wonderful. However, I must tell you that it was the
moist incredible and inspiring account I have ever heard - far
exceeding my highest expectation. You have touched Paul, Emily and myself
in a very special way - a way that happens only a few times in a lifetime.
Your story is unforgettable and compelling. I promise you that your story
will be kept very much alive in the Simpson family." - Marie Simpson, Parent, Saint Cecelia School,
San Francisco, CA "Your
tender and gentle retelling of your story touched the students in such a
way that brought out their emotions with every word spoken. It was
especially moving to witness the post-presentation reactions of the
students as they asked insightful and emotional questions and listened
intently for your response. It was no doubt your mannerisms and confidence
that allowed them to approach you and your story in this manner. In all,
we were greatly touched by this entire experience." - Bradly Richman, 5th Grade Teacher, P.S. 29, Queens, NY "Our teachers and students were extremely fortunate to be able to hear first hand accounts of this period in history. Your description of the events that took place during your childhood brought meaning and understanding to their studies of World War11. …Please consider returning to Edwardsville in the 2000-20001 school year to make similar presentations to our high school students. The impact of your words were felt for many weeks as children and teachers discussed the events that touched your life and family…Your are truly a positive role model for young people." - Dr. Ed Hightower, Superintendent of Schools, Edwardsville Community Schools, Edwardsville, IL "I cannot thank
you enough for your inspirational and challenging words and your uplifting
presence. It was a gift to meet you." "You have made
a difference in my life and in the lives of the many people whose hearts
and souls you have touched." "I was profoundly
moved by your courage and bravery as a child living through that horrendous
time in history. We are encouraged to hear of your commitment to communicate
your experiences and your message of hope to young and old through your
book and presentations" "Your serene and
peaceful presence (also) served as an excellent role model to the many
young people you touched that day. Your message, which stressed the importance
of love and forgiveness, clearly explains that 'light can come from darkness.
" "I continue to
see your face and hear your voice. Your words expressed the horror of
your experience yet they were softened by the goodness and compassion
that define you and your life. ..You have a way of reaching out to others
and connecting them with the feelings you so eloquently convey." "..Your honesty and grace with which you have responded to such a challenging set of circumstances touched us all You bear witness not only to the Holocaust but to the refusal of the human spirit to be defeated by evil." - Paul Longo, Ed. D., Dean, School of Education, Queens College, NY ".It's so important for kids (and parents) to hear about not only your book FOUR PERFECT PEBBLES, but also to hear about you. To put a human face (and voice) on the words in the book helps everyone feel the reality of what you lived. ..You're the real thing, Marion, and I'm glad we had the opportunity to bring you to kids via the airwaves." - Lou Giansante, Producer, NEW YORK KIDS WNYC, NY "You are a courageous woman. Your testimony helps insure the awareness in the next generation so perhaps a holocaust can be avoided in the future. .. We would very much like to invite you again and make you a regular part of our Holocaust education program for as long as you wish to have us as an audience." - Vicki I. Karant, Ed.D., Assistant Principal. Lawrence Middle School, Lawrence, NY "I just want to thank you for your incredible visit. Your story captured the hearts of the children and will never be forgotten St. Adalbert will use FOUR PERFECT PEBBLES in its Social studies curriculum. Your story will remain with us forever." - Mrs. Diane Hesterhagen, Principal, St Adalbert School, Staten Island, NY "Your presentation was fantastic and completely enthralled our students. We have talked about it three days since! " - Julie Martin, Vickie Koch, 6th grade teachers, Wilson Intermediate School, Pekin, IL "The riveted attention the children gave you was testament to your story and the powerful message of racial harmony you delivered. .Your presence brought to life a very dark period in the history of the world an of the Jewish People." - Mark Drexler, C.I.T., Public School 79, Queens, NY "You ruined my eye makeup as I sat there and the tears rolled down my face, and you destroyed my image of being a 'strong teacher,' but I would not have traded the experience for anything. Thank you for sharing your life." - Holly Mjaanes, teacher, Lawrence Middle School, Lawrence, NY "Respect for people has always been a priority for me as a person and certainly as a Catholic school we continue to pride ourselves on those values - your suggestion to look for the similarities in people and not the differences will be a major motivation for us here at Villa. We thank you for who you are and are grateful to be part of your great mission." - Sister Anne Dolores, St. John Villa Academy, Staten Island, NY "It is my fervent
prayer that your resolve to imprint the young with your story is so successful
that they will never allow such atrocities to happen again. You have touched
the very soul of Pekin by your presence and those of us who have heard
you have been greatly enriched." "Your speech was profoundly moving for both the students and the adults present. Your messages of tolerance, acceptance and the elimination of prejudice are important lessons that those present will not soon be apt to forget." - Kellie Herren, 6th grade teacher, Washington Intermediate School, Pekin, IL " I wanted to
let you know how much I really appreciated your addressing the issues
of tolerance and kindness with the students as we try and stress these
so much here as part of the LifeSkills Program. Hearing you talk after
so much violence in our schools should give new importance to this topic." "Although it was
incredibly hot the day you spoke, I have been impressed with the impact
which you made on the students. I take an unofficial poll each time my
children bring friends home, and I can report to you that you have made
them think and have made them aware. ...We will have to replenish our
stock (of FOUR PERFECT PEBBLES) for Mr. Lawless' history classes next
year." "I know how many
lives you touched in these few hours, and what an incredible mark you
and your story made on me. You are a great testament to the ability and
strength of the human spirit to triumph and overcome any adversity, a
beacon of light in darkness, and an overall inspiration. The legacy of
your story will live on through your family, your book, and your ability
to touch those around you. I thank you for honoring me with the opportunity
to be influenced by your story and enriched by your presence." "Your story made a significant impact on their (the students) understanding of the consequences of hatred and intolerance. Your presentation made this event real... I will be including your story and book in my unit on the Holocaust." - Sandra Rayson, Gates Chili Middle School, Rochester, NY from a letter to
the publisher, Greenwillow - "The event was
inspiring. Every seat of the 250 person Leonhardt Auditorium was taken,
all 100 books sold out. The atmosphere was charged from the moment Mrs.
Lazan started to speak. The audience, ranging from middle school students
to seniors, was spellbound and not a sound could be heard other than Mrs.
Lazan's compelling words. We thank Marion for a valuable and timely lesson
on love, hope and courage and what can be achieved through faith." "----for taking the time to be with us, for both teaching us and touching us, for inspiring us with your sensitivities, optimism, and faith, for being such a role model of dignity and menschlichkeit, and for playing such an important role in making our Kristallnacht Program so meaningful, the students and I are deeply appreciative." - Rabbi Meir Mitelman, Executive Director, Hofstra University Hillel, Hempstead, NY "It is astounding that you can tell and re-tell these painful experiences and yet emerge hopeful! This I believe is a credit to your strong faith and belief in the goodness of mankind. As the teachers work with the students in follow-up activities, I will urge them to remind the students that your final message was one of hope for the future." - Margaret M. Balfe, Principal, Our Lady of Victory School, Mt. Vernon, NY "I see many authors and hear them speak, but I never heard a more riveting and emotional story. many people came up to me and said it was one of our most moving events to date." - Juliana, Manager, Bibelot Book Shop, Baltimore, MD " Even though
you shared a dark and painful story, the goodness and determination of
your family shone through the ordeal. ..I have recommend your talk to
other Catholic school principals." "Your message was clear and powerful, viz., that today's students are the last generation who have the opportunity to hear the stories of survivors and, therefor, it is their responsibility to retell them to their children and grandchildren; and, also, that the world can only be saved by tolerance, and that tolerance is taught foremost at home. . You came to Bronx Science for a few hours, but the positive impact of your words will last for years." - Stanley Blumenstien, Principal, Bronx High School of Science, Bronx, NY "..You helped our students to personally visualize what the conditions were like at this time and place. The fact that you were the same age as our students when you experienced these events had a tremendous impact on them as well. .I especially liked your positive approach with our students, You emphasized the importance of keeping your mind active and staying focused on the things you could do within the existing conditions and situation." - Joyce Anderson, Principal, Middle School of Piedmont, Piedmont, OK "The memories you shared, although often painful, touched each member of the audience and could be witnessed by the rapt attention they gave to you. ..I know that your message of love and forgiveness will remain with the students." - Lorraine Bianco, Young Adult Librarian, Uniondale Public Library, Uniondale, NY "The students
were enthralled and captivated by your presence. You made history come
alive for them." “Hi! I just wanted to tell you what an amazing impression it made on Cory to meet Marion Blumenthal Lazan yesterday. He felt so honored to be selected to meet her and ask her a question. I know he was nervous, but was quite proud of how he managed it! He has been talking about her for some time now, so I know he was deeply touched by her story, and thrilled to meet her. Thank you for giving Cory this opportunity.” – Letter from a parent to student’s teacher, Avon, CT From
a letter to Avon Books -
" I plan on
using Four Perfect Pebbles in conjunction with Night to enable our students
to realize more fully the horror and tragedy of the Holocaust. Marion
Blumenthal Lazan transforms history from a litany of facts and policies
to a living world that trapped real people, a paradoxical world of heartlessness
and hope. ..To study the Holocaust is to experience the chilling, viscerally
searing horror of what Elie Wiesel calls Night. Yet that night still had
stars that gleamed with a message of hope arising from bleakest despair.
Marion Blumenthal Lazan is such a shinning beacon." "Certain experiences
in a lifetime become etched in one's mind forever. Your visit .. is one
of those memorable experiences which will be etched in the minds of all
members of our school community. .The message of tolerance and respect
for others that you gave us was very powerful." "I cannot overestimate the impact your presentation made on all who heard you. Today, throughout the school - in the halls, the classrooms, the teachers' lounge - teachers and students alike are discussing your visit and powerful message that you imparted to our Woodland family. . Your beautiful message of tolerance, love, and peace, which grew out of a horrendous experience of intolerance, hate and war, was delivered with such warmth and generosity of spirit that all of us who heard you were deeply touched. We left with a determination to spread and to live your message, and also with a tremendous respect for, and admiration of, you as a person, a survivor and a messenger of peace." - Deirdre Hayes, Department Chair, English/Social Studies, Woodland Middle School. East Meadow, NY "Please know that when you share your Holocaust experiences, you are giving perhaps more than you intended. Our students and teachers did not learn only about the horrors of the Holocaust. They learned much, much more. They learned that a child who experiences horror beyond imagining at the hands of cruel adults can grow up to be a person who loves and gives generously to society. They learned that one chooses bitterness and cynicism. They are not inevitable products of bad experiences if one is determined to live life. They learned that a child denied an education can exceed all expectations, can blossom intellectually when finally given a chance to learn because, more than luckier people, she knows the value of what was denied. They learned that a child reared in terror and misery can grow to be a charming woman of good character and fine morals. In short, anyone who spends time with Marion must learn that we need not be victimized by our experiences but, instead, can use them to temper our intentions and strengthen our will. You bring hope to all lives you touch." - Dolores Norman, Media Specialist, Plainview-Old Bethpage Middle School, Plainview, NY "I give thanks
to G-d for the enablement He gave you to make such a wonderful presentation
and also the wisdom in answering the multiplicity of questions that you
were asked. The opportunity it provided for racial intermix, spiritual
fellowship and intellectual stimulation can only prove mutually beneficial." "Your ability to deliver a fresh and engaging story day after day (and hour after hour in most cases!) exceeded my expectations. I know what it takes to hold an audience. Marion, you surpassed yourself each and everytime. I truly respect you as a speaker." -Sheila Morrissey, Writer & Producer, Edmond, OK "You are the magic
when you walk in a room - it lights up. You make everyone feel special.
Thanks for spending a week of your life with us. What a wonderful and
special gift. You have touched my life and heart. What a blessing God
sent me in the form of Marion Blumenthal Lazan. May I share that blessing,
and may it multiply and touch the hearts and minds of the children and
teachers throughout Oklahoma." "Rarely have I had the opportunity to see 2,500 teachers sit in awed silence as they did when you spoke. In today’s intolerant world your message of tolerance, love hope and peace is so critical, yet very few people have the ability to express these ideals as eloquently as you." – Harry A. Briggs, Regional Superintendent of Schools, Madison County, IL "The story of your courage and survival during a time of horror and destruction certainly was awe inspiring and impacted greatly on all our students who otherwise cannot begin to understand the kind of strength it took to survive with the spirit and energy you possess." – Rabbi Joel Cohen, Principal, S/A/R Academy, Riverdale, NY "Your courage and positive attitude were both truly amazing and extremely inspirational. Thank you for helping our students have a better understanding of the horrific events surrounding the Holocaust." –- Dr. David R. Lett, Principal, Seneca Grade School, Seneca, IL "Your message was an expression of love for our future generations….Out of the horrible history of the Holocaust came you and your story. I know that as a parent and an educator, you have provided my own child a lesson I could never possible share." – Jo Anne Woiwode, Principal, Byron High School, Byron, IL "…thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing a book and then presenting it to PS 32 in Flushing, NY. My son, Thomas, who is in the 6th grade, was very impressed with your courage and love towards children. Your life has touched the hearts of so many and that is a miracle. God Bless you. - Lazara Stathes, Parent "You are a symbol of hope, determination and love, to us here….I shall never forget your story…and will use it forever." - Anna Marie Collins, Teacher, Cobleskill-Richmondville Middle School, Warnerville, NY "Of all the speakers we've had at AAG, I don't remember anyone who's had as profound an impact on such a wide range of students, faculty members and parents as you did. …One teacher said 'her story touched the students in a way no other means of communication could.' " - Audrey H Librarian, Albany Academy for Girls, Albany, NY "You are such an inspiration to the world. Your visit was incredibly wonderful and the students loved both you and Nathaniel. It had to be one of the best days in my teaching career!" - Jennie Lamb, Teacher, Shepherd Middle School, Ottawa, IL "…..my niece went because she was receiving credit in a class, and I went because of…….. My niece and I received much more than extra credit, we experienced a life changing evening, and we did it together. Thank you so much." - Kathryn Lewis, Memphis, TN "You are a role model not only for middle school girls, but for all of us!" - Judy Rowley, Albany Academy for Girls, Albany, NY "As the counselor at the middle school, I know many of the students' stories and I watched as some of "wounded" students listened to your story. I saw a child whose mother was brutally murdered a year and a half ago lean forward and listen as you told her that we can survive anything. I saw our students who have been homeless listen as you told them that you found a new place and started again. I saw students whose language and culture, Ojibwa, almost disappeared because their grandparents were forced into boarding schools and beaten for speaking their language, hear that rebuilding is possible. I watched as some of my fellow staff members realized for the first time the full horror of the Holocaust. I saw students who usually had a hard time sitting still for five minutes and who run over one another in 'middle school hurry,' sit completely still for one hour and then stay behind just to be near you and get their book signed. I have one more word for you to define: miracle (I'll tell you)-your survival, your story and your humanity -YOU TWO." - Alana Friedman, Counselor, Cloquet Middle School, Cloquet, MN "Marion, you spoke of how you question periodically why it is that you survived when so many did not. And then you said you found the answer in your nine grandchildren. I believe it is safe to say that many of us find another reason why you were the one who was 'allowed' to survive…you touch so many lives. You speak so well, your message is so powerful and so powerfully delivered, and you touch so many lives. I thank God for you. You are so special." - Deb Fisher, Teacher, Cloquet Middle School, Cloquet, MN "Hearing your story again at the IRC was inspiring. You have a unique, sad, and ultimately glorious story to tell, and you tell it with both heart and mind. God has blessed you richly." - Caroljean N. Peters, Freeburg School, New Athens, Il "I wanted to share with you that one of the students
remarked; 'Mrs. Lazan "I cannot believe the two of you! **YOU ARE SO WONDERFUL!!** My part of mentioning this on the listserv last spring was so very small--I was happy to do it! The message you are spreading to young and old around the country--and even world--is very badly needed. I know that it's tiring for you at times, but yet you keep going. THANK YOU!!! Your visit to Maquoketa will always be remembered!" - Merry Kahn, Librarian, Briggs Elementary School, Maquoketa, IA "Marion Blumenthal Lazan is a great speaker/author. She co-authored the book Four Perfect Pebbles with Lila Perl which addresses her experience in the Holocaust through liberation. I became aware of her last year on LM_NET when Betty Wolfe at Avon Middle School in CT raved about Marion B. Lazan's presentation. I want to second that! I visited her website and inquired about her speaking in Andover, KS--next thing I know she was on the phone! After many details were ironed out she spoke at Andover, Kansas' two middle schools and 2 high schools (as well as presented in Wichita and Circle) It was the most heartwarming, touching, meaningful presentation I have ever heard. We have had comments from seasoned teachers that the presentation was the best they have ever heard. And the students! WOW! The middle schoolers were quiet and respectful for over an hour (one school had their presentation in the gym and you could hear a pin drop!), the high schoolers were attentive for 1 ˝ hours! The students had great questions, listened and got Marion's message. Marion speaks about her experiences but brings a message of tolerance of others, respecting others (esp. parents). The students heard her message! I have had high schoolers tell me they hope their 'group' heard her message. It's a powerful presentation! If you are interested go to http://www.fourperfectpebbles.com for her website. She encourages students (as well as others) to e-mail her and she will e-mail back! She charges per presentation plus expenses. She is worth every dime! I visited our civic organizations here in town and got donations to pay for flight, hotel etc. If you have a chance e-mail her. Arrange for a visit! She is outstanding! (make sure you allow plenty of time for questions, that's the best part!) Oh, by the way--"Marion's Triumph " a documentary of her story is being shown on many PBS stations in April. Check your TV list. It is narrated by Debra Messing. Thanks, letting me share my enthusiasm for Marion Blumenthal Lazan"
- Rita Herl, Library Media Specialist, Andover Central Middle School,
Andover, KS 67002 1-316-266-8853 herlr@usd385.org
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