“Listening to a witness makes you a witness.”

Simplified Meaning:

When you listen to someone tell their story or describe something they experienced, it's almost like you were there yourself. This happens because their words create mental pictures in your mind. Think of a friend telling you about a beautiful sunset they saw. As they describe the colors and the feeling, you can imagine it almost as if you saw it too. In history class, when you hear a survivor talk about their experiences during a significant event, like a war, you start to understand and feel the impact of that event more deeply. Similarly, when someone talks about a problem they're facing, you begin to see the world through their eyes. This means you're more likely to empathize and understand them better. Applying this in life is straightforward: by actively listening to others, you can gain deeper insight into their experiences, struggles, and joys. This understanding can make you more compassionate and connected to the people around you. So, when you take the time to really listen, you expand your own perspective and become a part of their story.