Freedom

Angela Merkel is a true inspiration. The first of many—first woman chancellor of Germany, first politician from former East Germany, and for me, the first of many who stayed true to what they believed in.

She has been criticized, ridiculed, and put down, yet she has always been a symbol of stability and consistency. Many might say she was rigid and inflexible, but it is admirable to be so firm about following through on a commitment. She viewed things pragmatically and often changed her stance on political issues. Her nature of evolving and adapting to the times only shows how strong she was. It is always easier to be on the outside and criticize the actions and decisions of political leaders. But when you ask yourself if you could have done any better in their shoes, under the pressure they are subjected to, you will think differently.

I knew so little about the DDR and the life of the Germans there, and the first half of the book gave a very interesting insight. It seems like a different world altogether.

Much of the book reads like an extensive roll call of names. She mentions so many people and so many details. It became a bit boring to read so many details, but I guess it was important to understand the whole story.

I don’t support all the decisions made during her term, but I admire her as a person, and reading this book only reaffirmed my admiration.

© 2025 Sindhuja Cheema Enzinger. All Rights Reserved.