“The Haven of Life” refers to the family history of the author’s mother, through the very history of each place. All events that have happened through the centuries are real, proved by documents and archives found, which were researched in different places.
In the book we follow the roots and the course of the family, from Chios and Siphnos islands, in the beginning of the 19th century, the transition to Constantinople, life there and the consequences of the Greek population’s removal form the beautiful Poli, the pre-war Athens and up to the 21st century in 2024, following the roots and the course of the family. Recording nearly 200 years of history and family life.
The family serves as the foundational cell of human society. From the family unit, larger groups of people emerged, forming the basis of the first settlements. As communities grew and developed, they laid the foundations for cities and states. Throughout this process, humans have perfected social aggregates, which are strongly bound by fundamental laws and principles. As the smallest unit of society, the family plays a crucial role in shaping individuals’ moral, cultural, spiritual, and humanitarian values. It is within the family that we find guidance, support, and strength, and it is from the family that we learn essential life skills and values.
Throughout history, humans have recognized the impermanence of life and have understood the importance of self-preservation and the continuation of their species. The instinct of self-preservation and the drive for reproduction are deeply ingrained in human nature and have been essential for the survival and perpetuation of the human race.
The concept of descendants and the desire to leave a legacy are inherent in human beings. This innate drive to pass on our knowledge, values, and experiences to future generations is a testament to our understanding of the impermanence of life and the importance of ensuring the continuity of our species. I refuse to let the people I have met, and even those whom I haven’t, fade away into obscurity with the passing of time. It is my ardent desire to immortalize their stories in written form, so that future generations can discover and learn from them. With my pen, I have documented the enchanted places that were the birthplace of my ancestors, for the departed live on in our memories.
Unravelling the biography and family trees of the ancestors, it focuses on the peculiarities of each era, that were analogous to the events of the times mentioned. By offering a glimpse into the past through the places where my ancestors once lived, I invite you to share in their experiences and journey alongside me.
As our contemporary culture increasingly embraces the past, this book serves as an ode to our heritage.