“I know I don't have to apologize for crying”: When our history becomes our experience

Abstract

Professional child and youth care workers in North America can derive strength and inspiration from the lives of many of their European ancestors. Notable among these is Janusz Korczak who, along with his staff, chose to accompany the children of the Warsaw Orphans' Home to their terrible death. “Family reunions” of those involved in child and youth care work from around the world are now happening with some regularity, and the author illustrates from his own experience how such international involvement can lead to important personal and professional transformations of perspective and attitude.