A Wonderful World

 A grandson of slaves, an infant boy born in a poor neighborhood of New Orleans known as the "Back of Town” was abandoned by his father. His mother became a prostitute and the boy and his sister had to live with their grandmother.

Early in life he proved to be gifted with music. He and three other kids sang in the streets of New Orleans. His first gains were coins that were thrown to them.

The Karnofsky family, immigrating from Lithuania to the USA, had compassion for this 7-year-old boy and brought him into their home. Initially, to feed this hungry child, they gave him work to do around the house. There he remained and slept in this Jewish family's home where he was treated with kindness and tenderness.

When he went to bed, Mrs. Karnofsky sang him a Russian lullaby that he would sing with her. Later, he learned to sing and play several Russian and Jewish songs. Over time, this boy became like an adopted son of this family.

The Karnofskys gave him money to buy his first musical instrument, as was the custom in Jewish families. They sincerely admired his musical talent. Later, when he became a professional musician and composer, he used Jewish melodies in some of his compositions.

That little boy grew up and became famous. You might recognize his name: Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong. Louis Armstrong proudly spoke fluent Yiddish and wore a Star of David the rest of his life. He said the Karnofskys taught him “how to live real life with determination.”

What a Wonderful World.