The next photo is the PROMPT. Remember, all photos are property of the photographer, donated for use in Friday Fictioneers only. They shouldn’t be used for any other purpose without express permission. It is proper etiquette to give the contributor credit.
PHOTO PROMPT © Dale Rogerson
It is sunrise or sunset. To the right is a building that looks like it has a tetris puzzle rising from it. The sun is peeking through an archway.
Genre: Historical Fiction
Word Count: 100
ALL VOWS
Orange, golden and pink hues emblazoning the sky almost made Judith forget where she was. Her hollow stomach growled.
“Tonight, we begin our fast,” she said, “and recite the Kol Nidre.”
“Fast?” Rachel scowled. “Are you meshuga?”
Later in the darkened barracks, Judith lit a candle, opened a contraband prayer book and whispered, “Repeat after me.”
Eight-hundred emaciated women gathered around her. Without words their cries rose in unison as a prayer.
Years later, as her cantor sang a beautiful rendition of the prayer, memories of Auschwitz flooded Judith. She had experienced Light in the darkness. She would never forget.
*The above story is based on an actual survivor’s account.
The following is a little long but one of the most beautiful renditions of the Kol Nidre which is sung on Erev Yom Kippur, the evening of Yom Kippur. On the Jewish calendar the day begins at sunset.




The human spirit survives, even in the face of atrocity. A good Yom Kippur to you and yours
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Dear Neil,
It is amazing what some can endure and rise above. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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This is no longer just a memory- today this should be read as a call to order as we are just once step away- if that- currently in our country. Beautifully written, Rochelle.
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Dear Violet,
I’m constantly reminded that those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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And you are 100% right in regard to that.
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To experience light in such darkness is truly a miracle – thanks for sharing Rochelle❤️
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Dear Angela,
There are so many untold stories. When I find them I’m happy to share. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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❤️
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May your fast be easy.
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Thank you.
G’mar Hatima Tovah,
Rochelle
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It is interesting to imagine commemorating a fast during a period of starvation. Perhaps it gave them strength to do so for a better reason. May your fast be easy.
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Dear Jen,
I can’t imagine even thinking about fasting under those circumstances. But I think it did give them strength. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Poignant story, Rochelle. Not sure if you heard of a movie that was just released in theaters, “Eleanor the Great,” but I think you would love it.
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Dear Lisa,
No, I haven’t heard of the movie. I’ll have to look it up. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Rochelle, you are welcome.
Shalom,
Lisa
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Dear Rochelle,
This is a beautiful and poignant story, my friend. Strength comes from deep withing. This recording is gorgeous. I had to wait until the end before hitting the comment button.
Shalom and lotsa courageous love,
Dale
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Dear Dale,
Azi Schwartz is an amazing cantor. There are many more videos out there. I had to listen to the recording again this morning before playing FF catch up. Thank you re my story, my friend.
Shalom and lotsa strong hugs,
Rochelle
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He is. And my pleasure.
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Real story of faith and hope and prayers made them cope.
Glad she took the lead and so many women supported.
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Dear Anita,
Yes, it took faith and courage. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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when everything seems lost, it is faith that holds us together, guiding us through darkness, reminding us of hope, and giving us strength to continue, no matter how difficult the path.
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Dear Plaridel,
To your comment I humbly say amen and thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thank you for sharing this story with us, Rochelle, also for treating us to that beautiful recording.
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Dear Keith,
When I find these stories I have to share. Glad you enjoyed the recording. 😀 Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Ahh, very powerfully done, Rochelle … and yes, we must never forget. A mantra for that. An excellent video – I had been watching that two days ago, and just a little later I was watching the BBC World news. Just awful – there was a terrorist attack on one of the synagogues in Manchester, UK – three people killed including the terrorist, and it was the holiest day. Shivers.
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Dear Chris,
What happened in Manchester is tragic and sadly got little air play over here. When something like that happens in the Jewish community it effects all of us. Thank you re my story.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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A story of courage and hope.
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Thank you, James.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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There were so many such accounts while I was growing up, and so many more who did not get to make an account, because the Nazis killed them. Yes to light in the darkness. Yes to voice in the silence.
(Once more the linky thingy didn’t let me in – keeps saying it need to verify my email address and that a verification email was sent, only for no email to arrive. Won’t let me redo my password, either. I’m stuck. Sorry. Been trying to participate).
Shana Tova!
Na’ama
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Na’ama Y’karah,
Just when I think I’ve heard all the stories another surfaces.
Sorry about your issues with the inLink. You’re up on the squares now. Between WP and inLinkz it’s a little frustrating.
Shana Tova!
Rochelle
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Thanks for putting me square in for me! Dunno why they all a sudden giving me grief after years of okay-relationships … but, hey, at least I got ya in me corner … 😀
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Dear Rochelle,
The courage, strength and determination of those women is astounding. Thank you for sharing that stunning video.
Shalom,
🕊️
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Dear Nancy,
I’m happy to share it all. Thank you.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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The fear in the moment is felt viscerally here. Incredibly brave. A light in the darkness. Well written
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Thank you so much, Laurie.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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