This memoir is my life as I remember it-a blend of personal experiences, reflections, and beliefs. It's a humble attempt to analyze those experiences and draw meaningful conclusions. I hope readers find it interesting or even useful. At the very least, perhaps my grandchildren will one day read it.
This volume is the first part of my memoirs, devoted to my life in Ukraine. I look forward to writing and publishing the continuation, which will tell the story of my second life in America.
Looking back, I seemed to have been fortunate-lucky, even. I lived far longer than most men in my family. I achieved a lot, including being the founding president of the International Solomon University-the first Jewish university in Ukraine, Russia, and Europe. Or maybe it was what some might call "Jewish luck." You'll be the judge of that.
I've lived in two vastly different worlds: communism and capitalism. For those grappling with questions about which system is better, this memoir provides much to ponder. My hope is that it might help prevent history from repeating the same mistakes.
All the stories and facts shared here are true, though it's possible I may have forgotten some exact dates, places, or names. If so, I apologize-any errors are purely unintentional.