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After the changes [in 1989] we have lived more modestly. The cost of living is much higher and the years are already a burden. Regarding the worldly changes, I think that they are controlled by the big capitalist countries. The economic changes in Bulgaria caused its devastation. Many plants were artificially led to bankruptcy. The foreign markets were closed. And now it’s very difficult for them to be restored.
We gather at the Jewish community only at holiday time. There are very few Jews left in our town. Sometimes we receive relief funds from ‘Joint.’ I eat at a canteen and part of my food costs are covered by ‘Joint.’ Now I live in an apartment in a panel block. My son has a separate apartment and my daughter lives in Sofia. Both my children live in an entirely Bulgarian environment. Throughout the years my social circle was also predominantly Bulgarian. I remained close with most of the Jews in town and especially with some Jewish families like the Alkalai family, for example. I also meet with the few elderly Jews left, who like me have their lunch in a canteen downtown.
We gather at the Jewish community only at holiday time. There are very few Jews left in our town. Sometimes we receive relief funds from ‘Joint.’ I eat at a canteen and part of my food costs are covered by ‘Joint.’ Now I live in an apartment in a panel block. My son has a separate apartment and my daughter lives in Sofia. Both my children live in an entirely Bulgarian environment. Throughout the years my social circle was also predominantly Bulgarian. I remained close with most of the Jews in town and especially with some Jewish families like the Alkalai family, for example. I also meet with the few elderly Jews left, who like me have their lunch in a canteen downtown.
Location
Bulgaria
Interview
Sabat Pilosof