Astrida Straumanis Ramrath

Where Do I Belong? Astrida Straumanis Ramrath

Astrida's memoirs begin with tales of a happy childhood on her family's farm in the small Northeastern European country of Latvia. Suddenly forced to flee from the Russians at the end of WW II, her life and the lives of so many others, take an unexpected turn. In this book, she attempts to recall and relive the past, examining events and circumstances that eventually lead her to a new life in the United States. Astrida not only gives us insight into her daily struggles, but she sends an inspiring message of hope, survival, perseverance, faith and optimism. She writes, "Accumulation of experiences mold and form one's psyche. What we are born with, and what route our life takes are most often decided by factors outside of ourselves. Many a time, what seems to be predictable and certain, blows away like a feather in the wind. What is one to do? Adjust, accept, regroup, and continue on. That is what living is all about." Astrida's faith in God, as well as her remarkable dedication to family, friends and her beloved homeland of Latvia, are a constant theme. As we journey along with her through all of life's phases, and as she strives to make sense of the world and herself, we can't help but be encouraged by her wisdom and growing sense of clarity. "Life is a gift and a treasure", she says. And life is "classroom". "Experience is such a marvelous teacher if we care to listen and absorb the lesson."