"Por los muertos y los vivos debemos dar testimonio"

Bearing witness is about remembering and acknowledging both the deceased and the living. It’s a call to action for all of us to ensure that the stories, experiences, and realities of others are seen, heard, and honored. This concept, often associated with times of great tragedy or significant historical events, underscores the importance of not turning a blind eye to suffering and injustice—whether past or present.

This idea is often linked to the Holocaust and the words of Elie Wiesel, a survivor who became a powerful voice for remembering the atrocities committed during that dark period. Wiesel emphasized that to forget would be akin to allowing the victims to suffer a second death. By remembering, we honor the victims and commit ourselves to preventing such horrors in the future.

Let’s bring this into a more practical, everyday context. Imagine a small town hit by a natural disaster. People lose their homes, their loved ones, and their sense of safety. The survivors are in shock, struggling to rebuild their lives. Now, picture a group of volunteers who come in to help. They listen to the stories of the victims, they document these experiences, and they share them with the world. They don’t just rebuild houses—they bear witness to the pain and resilience of the community. By doing so, they ensure that the suffering is not ignored and that the stories of strength and survival inspire others to help and to remember.

So, how do we apply this wisdom in our own lives? It’s about being present and mindful of the experiences of those around us. If a friend is going through a tough time, listen—really listen. Don’t just offer platitudes. Understand their pain and support them through it. When we see injustice, whether it's a large-scale societal issue or something happening in our local community, we should speak out. Use our voices to amplify those who may not have the power or platform to be heard. Sometimes, it’s as simple as acknowledging someone’s struggle and validating their feelings.

Think about a time when you felt ignored or invisible. Maybe you were going through a hard breakup, and it seemed like no one really understood the depth of your pain. Then, a friend comes along. They sit with you, let you cry, and they just listen. They don’t try to fix things or tell you to move on—they simply witness your pain. How did that make you feel? Probably a bit more seen, a bit more human. That’s the power of bearing witness.

We can all be that friend. We can all be that volunteer. By taking the time to acknowledge and remember the experiences of others—whether they're the painful memories of those who have passed or the current struggles of those still with us—we build a more empathetic and connected world. It’s not always easy. It takes effort and sometimes courage, but the rewards—both for us and for those we witness—are profound. So next time you see someone hurting or hear about a past injustice, don’t look away. Be present. Bear witness.