Clan-Do Spirit: A Family’s Quest for Identity
Uncovering the Lost Tribe of Plitt
At a family reunion in Rockville, Maryland, an unexpected discovery emerged. Among the Plitts, a prominent clan with a long history, were Jewish members who had been hidden from view. This revelation sparked a profound journey of exploration and reconciliation.
The Jewish and Gentile Plitts: A Family Divided
The Plitt family tree, meticulously documented by Irmgard Schwarz, traces its roots back to the 16th century. However, a dark chapter in history obscured the connection between the Jewish and gentile branches. During the Holocaust, the Nazis decimated Jewish families, leaving a void that would haunt generations to come.
DNA Testing Unravels the Mystery
In a bid to unravel the mystery of their shared heritage, several Plitts underwent DNA testing. The results were startling: there was no common ancestor within the past 15,000 to 30,000 years. This shattered the hope of a blood connection between the Jewish and gentile Plitts.
From Holocaust Deniers to Hebrew Singers: The Transformation of the Plitt Family
Despite the DNA revelation, the Plitts chose to embrace each other as family. Irmgard Schwarz, a gentile Plitt who had dedicated her life to understanding the Holocaust, became a catalyst for reconciliation. She led the family in singing Hebrew songs, demonstrating the power of shared culture to bridge divides.
The Plitt Family Reunion: A Quest for Identity and Meaning
The Plitt family reunions became a forum for confronting the past and forging a new bond. Through discussions, storytelling, and shared experiences, the family members explored their identities and the significance of their shared name.
The DNA Test That Shattered the Plitt Family’s Illusion
The news of the DNA results sent shockwaves through the family. However, instead of rupturing their connection, it served as a catalyst for growth. It prompted them to reflect on the true meaning of family and the power of choice to overcome prejudice.
Conclusion
The Plitt family’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the horrors of the past and the challenges of the present, they have found a way to reconcile their differences and embrace each other as kin. Their story is a reminder that the bonds of family can transcend bloodlines and that forgiveness and reconciliation are possible, even in the face of adversity.
The next Plitt family reunion is scheduled for 2010 in the Berkshires. Irmgard Schwarz and many others have already committed to attending, eager to continue the dialogue and deepen the connection between the Jewish and gentile branches of the Plitt family.