Takeaways from My Meeting with Mr. Malkiel Daniel
Not long ago, I could only dream of meeting those who carry the living memory of our people – the generation of Bukharian Jews who endured hunger, war, dictatorship, and emigration. Their stories form the backbone of our collective resilience. When the door opened, I was greeted by Mr. Malkiel Daniel and his wife, Lilia. Their warm smiles filled the room with light. Hospitality is, after all, at the heart of Bukharian tradition.
Malkiel
Daniel was born in Samarkand in 1931. The youngest in a large family, he was
drawn to books from an early age, and that love led him to journalism. In
Dushanbe, he rose to the position of executive secretary of a leading national
newspaper. Yet the growing tide of state-sponsored antisemitism closed both
professional and personal doors to him.
After
his mother emigrated to Israel, Malkiel was expelled from the party and
stripped of his position. Despite years of restrictions and delays, he
eventually succeeded in leaving the country, reuniting with his mother, and
beginning a new chapter. Later, invited by the U.S. government, the family
moved to Munich, where Mr. Daniel headed the Tajik Service of Radio Liberty for
more than twenty years. He saw his mission in the power of truthful words – in
supporting freedom of thought, conscience, and faith.
Yet
beyond the breadth of his accomplishments, it is the person within him
that matters most. He cared for his mother until her final day and fulfilled
her last wish – to be laid to rest in the soil of Jerusalem. For the goodness
he brought into the lives of others, G-d blessed Malkiel with a devoted, loving
wife who remains his inspiration, and with children and grandchildren who
continue the legacy of their home. He built a life grounded in faith, dignity,
and loyalty to Bukharian heritage.
1. Trust in God’s plan.
Even when
life feels uncertain, have faith that G-d will guide you toward your purpose. Pursue
your goals with determination and trust that G-d will provide the means.
2. Honor your parents.
Stand by
them through everything. Those who respect and care for their parents are blessed
in return.
3. Always do what’s right.
No amount
of success or recognition is worth compromising your integrity. Stay true to your
beliefs, even when it costs you comfort or prestige.
4. Understand your influence.
Never underestimate
the impact you can have. Use your voice and your talents to enlighten others and
stand up for the truth. You were given a voice for a reason.
5. Lead by example.
The respect
and love you show your parents will echo through generations – your children will
learn from the way you treat those who raised you.
6. Find your hero in literature.
Engage with
books. Discover a character who inspires you, whose courage, kindness, or conviction
you want to reflect in your own life.
7. Value real love.
True love
is built on mutual understanding, patience, and respect - not perfection, but partnership.
8. Know where you come from.
Look at
the past. Understand the sacrifices your parents and grandparents made to give you
a better life and carry that gratitude forward.
9. Define your own happiness.
Everyone’s
path to fulfillment looks different – find yours with faith and self-awareness.
10. Stay humble and committed.
Achievements
are temporary; character is lasting. No matter how far you go, remain grounded,
grateful, committed, and humble.
