German Living in Hitler's World

1942

I woke today to fix breakfast and be a mother.

First, I wiped down all of the essentials in the kitchen: stove, and the counters.

Then I started to make eggs, and toast with honey on top.

The food smells usually wake up Benito. And soon enough he comes running down the stairs.

"Eggs, and toast with honey", he guesses while sniffing the air.
"Correct", I reply.

"In 1943, I want a job at the middle school, to be a teacher", I say.

"When Bellaire is 5 years old, so we can send her to school. And then baby boy will be 4", he says.

I sit down his coffee mug on the table.

He takes a sip, then says, "Besides, we receive income from our dads. And I have this job as a banker. So, we are far from great".

"Ben, this isn't about money! It's about helping Germany's children learn during war times! It must be difficult for their fathers to be gone! I want to help! I want to-", I say, but then I get interrupted.

"Many people have wants! Jill, I want this war to be over! We need to focus on our children's needs right now! It's the best we can do for them", he says.

I start to exit the kitchen.

"Don't walk away, Jill. Stay, and negotiate. Please", he says.

I turn around.

"I just hate it", I say.

"Hate what", he asks.

"I hate what my dad is doing! Goodness! When this war is over--! When this war is over, I will be known as the daughter of Hitler! That's all anyone will ever think about me as", I cry.

He pulls me into a hug.

"Your father is an huge planner. He has demands. But would you trade him for any other father in the world", he asks me.

"No", I reply.

"Alright then. Now, stand up so we can go shopping for new music", he says.

I go get the kids ready. Then we get into the car, and drive into town.

"War songs. War songs. And more songs about war", I say.

"That's all that's on the radio, too", he says.

We head home.