A Teen's Journey to Poland: Exploring Roots, Culture, and Family
Szostak side of the family on the farm 1976
Embarking on a journey to a foreign land is always an adventure, but for me, a 16-year-old from Chicago, my trip to Poland was not just about exploration—it was a voyage of discovery, connecting with my heritage, family, and the rich culture of my ancestors. Despite not speaking the language, I embraced the opportunity to immerse myself in the world my relatives called home.
My journey began with a multi-leg flight from Chicago to Warsaw, with layovers in Detroit, New York City, and Shannon, Ireland. It was a whirlwind journey, but stepping onto Polish soil filled me with excitement and anticipation. What awaited me were experiences I would never forget.
Upon arrival, I found myself in a world vastly different from the urban landscape of Chicago. I was greeted by distant relatives who welcomed me with open arms, despite the language barrier. Their warmth and hospitality immediately made me feel at home.
My first stop was a rural farmstead, a far cry from the bustling streets of Warsaw. Surrounded by chickens, sheep, and cows, and with only an outhouse for amenities, I experienced a simplicity of life that was both refreshing and eye-opening. Despite the rustic conditions, I embraced the charm of rural living and cherished the bond I formed with my relatives over many shared meals and laughter. I taught them English more than they taught me Polish.
Venturing into nearby towns like Krakow, I was captivated by the vibrant culture and rich history of Poland. I wandered through the charming streets, visited the magnificent Wawel Castle, and explored the bustling market square. I indulged in the local cuisine, savoring traditional dishes like pierogi and kielbasa. Each bite was a tantalizing taste of my heritage, connecting me more deeply to the land of my ancestors.
One of the highlights of my trip was attending a family wedding—a joyous celebration filled with music, dancing, and, of course, plenty of vodka. Eager to embrace the festivities, I found myself indulging a little too much and soon found myself being carried back to the house by my relatives. It was a moment of lightheartedness and camaraderie that I would always treasure.
When this 16-year-old girl from Chicago traveled to Poland in 1976, I arrived in a country still behind the Iron Curtain. This political and ideological boundary, established by the Soviet Union after World War II, separated Eastern and Western Europe, creating a stark divide between communist and capitalist systems. Under the Iron Curtain, Poland was under the influence of the Soviet Union, which meant strict government control, limited freedoms, and a unique socio-political environment vastly different from what I was accustomed to in the United States. The Iron Curtain added an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to my journey, making my trip to Poland a fascinating exploration of a country and culture largely unknown to the Western world at the time.
Despite the challenges of communication and cultural differences, my journey to Poland was a transformative experience. It was more than just a vacation; it was a journey of self-discovery and connection. Through my travels, I gained a deeper understanding of my roots, forged lasting bonds with my relatives, and created memories that would last a lifetime.
As I boarded my flight back to Chicago, I carried with me not only souvenirs, a diary, and photographs but also a newfound appreciation for my Polish heritage. My journey may have come to an end, but the spirit of adventure and discovery I found in Poland would stay with me forever.
What was your adventure as a sixteen-year-old?
