Kathy fell in love with the Polish culture. In her latest
work, she recounts Olek’s tales of growing up in the holocaust, and how through
his childhood memoirs, which she narrates with such effervescent imagery, she
came to understand his destiny was foretold by a gypsy.
Kathy’s life with Olek saw her and their three children
travel the world following his career as a doctor. Life for Kathy was full of
chaos, motherhood, celebration and happiness as she lived poles apart between
two cultures. Adapting to the “Polish ways” were challenging, especially
dealing with her mother-in-law, Olek’s mother, Mamushka. However, her
big-hearted-ness overrode the challenges and she not only fell in love with her
first husband, but also the history and culture of Poland.
Life stopped abruptly for Kathy when Olek was tragically
killed in an accident, leaving their three young children fatherless and Kathy
heartbroken. It is this next stage of her life where Kathy finds love again
with Voy, another Polish man. Voy gently filled a familiar role through his
similar Polish traits and patient nature aiding towards her healing process and
providing her another chance of happiness.
On a new journey now, Kathy reflects through My Two Husbands
how the spirit and guidance of Olek was, and still is a constant companion for
her and their children, Nadya, Jan and Mishka. Having walked a new path with
Voy, which welcomed a fourth child, Rafal, Kathy sees Olek’s unfinished stories
now being lived through her children, who all live passionate and eclectic
lives.
Painter and writer, Kathy now resides in Redfern with her
husband Voy, filling her home with vibrant grandchildren, her canvases and
heart-filled memories.
My Two Husbands is an enchanting memoir.
Photo: Ali Blogg – Kathy Golski with husband Voy
Source: South Sydney Herald
November 2008 www.southsydneyherald.com.au