i go to hear two survivors bear witness.
every year i am stunned anew when she pulls up her sleeve
and shows the string of numbers tattooed on her forearm.
i go to hear the mourners' kaddish,
i go to resist complacency,
to become recommitted.
i go to hear the madrigals sing
remember my song, by Albrecht/Althouse.
and i carry this prayer with me out into the spring morning...
i will remember.
i will act bravely in love.
This is one of the things that makes me truly grateful I got to spend 5 years at the Woo.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful Mom. It's true...I'm amazed everytime I hear it, and am scared for the time when first hand survivors won't be around to share the message.
ReplyDeleteNot enough people have courage to bear witness to the difficult things in this life, and then take that knowledge and reflection and act in positive, life-changing ways to benefit others.
ReplyDeleteYou, my friend, always have.
xo
A beautiful post. I am sometimes overwhelmed by the terrible things that have happened to people. Especially now that I have children.
ReplyDeleteHow moving, Karen.
ReplyDeleteWhat a solemn experience and how strong you are to bear witness to these brave survivors. Their experience is a horror that must not be forgotten, and must never be repeated.
Karen, that was a beautiful post...
ReplyDeleteand we better remember...
What a brave woman to bear witness still
Yes, remembering is so important. And speaking up when we hear something that concerns us...thanks, all, for your comments.
ReplyDeletei'm glad you go.
ReplyDeletei'm glad you told us, in just that beautiful way.