There is only one thing in this world that is inescapable to everyone – death. However, knowing that it is bound to happen to everyone doesn’t mean that it becomes any easier, especially when it happens to the people that we treasure.
Losing someone who has served as a good role model and inspirational figure in your life is truly heartbreaking, just like the loss of one well-loved politician in Poland.
On January 13, residents of Gdańsk, Poland received the most heartbreaking news: their beloved mayor, Paweł Adamowicz, was attacked onstage during the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity event. Unfortunately, the 53-year old mayor did not survive his injuries and he passed away the following day.
It was apparent that Adamowicz was a good public servant, as evidenced by the thousands of people who attended public vigils on the day of his passing.
On January 14, about 16,000 people assembled in Gdańsk’s Old Town to pay tribute to the deceased leader, who served as mayor for more than 20 years. Adamowicz was known to be a staunch supporter of LGBT rights, immigration, and minority groups. He was also recognized as a liberal and progressive figure in the Polish political scene.
This mayor fought for the rights of many sectors and his death is like a dagger to the heart, especially for those people whose lives he was able to change.
A stillness swept over the somber crowd as Disturbed vocalist David Draiman’s voice began playing over the loudspeaker. His powerful song resonated over the open area as the grief-stricken crowd listened, weeping over the untimely demise of their treasured leader.
Draiman’s rendition of “The Sound of Silence” gave the song a whole new meaning as it reverberated over the Gdańsk’s Old Town. The bittersweet and heart-wrenching crooning seemed to express what everyone was feeling during those moments – a deep sorrow for this tragic assassination.
Polish reporter Maciej Bąk described the atmosphere that night accurately, saying that the performance sent “shivers all over the body.” The lyrics of the song were particularly fitting and touching, almost emulating the mayor’s presence among the silent mourners.
Adamowicz leaves behind his wife, Magdalena Abramska, and their two daughters, Antonina and Teresa. Though he is gone from this world, it is certain that he will live on forever in the hearts of those he faithfully served.
Watch Draiman’s moving performance and share this video to honor this man’s great life and service to the people of Poland.
Rest in peace, Paweł Adamowicz.