The Italian Memorandum

The coffin of Wanda Horowitz was recently vandalized, likely by morbid treasure hunters. Modern generations may not recognize the name of Wanda Horowitz. She was the wife of the accomplished piano maestro, Vladamir Horowitz. Horowitz was born in Kiev, Russia and immigrated to the United States during World War II. Horowitz met his wife through his associations with the Italian conductor and composer Tuscanini. Wanda Horowitz was, in fact, formerly Wanda Tuscanini. She belonged to two of the most renowned musicologists that ever lived, her father and her husband. The criminals are at large as of our last information. Whether they found what they were looking for, or hoping to acquire by their dishonorable deed, we would not know. One thing, which we do know–that which is written on our hearts cannot be taken from us. Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20).

The Irish James Joyce once wrote, “When I die Dublin will be written in my heart.” Joyce seems to have understood the truth that, not even death itself can erase what is written on our heart. The early Christians were, themselves, reminded of this heart writing, “…I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God…”
(Hebrews 8:10).

We may wonder what was written on the hearts of Vladamir and Wanda Horowitz, or Tuscanini, but that is a matter now sealed for eternity. But, we may ask, when the seal of our own heart shall be broken, what will be found in the blank—“When I die ______ will be written in my heart.”

So, what is your Dublin?

-Robert M. Housby