"摧毁一个人最有效的方式就是否认并抹去他们对自己历史的理解。"

This quote dives deep into the idea that understanding history is crucial for maintaining one's identity and sense of self. By erasing or distorting a group's history, their foundation is shaken, leading to confusion and a breakdown of their collective and individual identities. History isn't just a record of events; it's the story of who we are and where we come from. When that story is tampered with, we risk losing our connection to our roots and our ability to learn from past mistakes.

Historically, this tactic has been employed in various ways. Think about colonial eras, where the colonizers often rewrote or entirely dismissed the histories of the people they dominated. They imposed their narratives, erasing native customs, traditions, and memories. This wasn't just about control over land and resources—it was about control over minds and spirits. By denying these people their history, colonizers could more easily manipulate and subjugate them.

Consider the example of indigenous peoples in North America. Their rich histories, filled with traditions, languages, and knowledge, were systematically undermined through forced assimilation efforts. Children were taken from their families and placed in boarding schools where their languages were forbidden, their cultural practices mocked, and their histories rewritten. This wasn't just an attack on their present lives but on their future as well—their ability to pass down their stories, values, and identities to the next generations was severely compromised.

So, how can we use this wisdom today? Well, it’s all about staying informed and protecting our heritage. We need to actively seek out and preserve our histories—read books, visit museums, talk to elders, and document stories. It's important to question the narratives that are presented to us and seek out multiple perspectives. By doing so, we keep our history alive and ensure that it can't be erased or distorted.

Imagine you're at a family gathering. Your grandparents start sharing stories from their youth. Maybe they talk about migrating to a new country or overcoming hardships that shaped who they are today. These tales aren't just entertaining anecdotes; they're pieces of your history. They give you a sense of where you come from and the resilience embedded in your lineage. Listening to and cherishing these stories helps you form a strong sense of identity and continuity.

But what if those stories were erased or altered? What if the history books you read in school didn't mention the struggles and triumphs of your ancestors? You'd lose that connection and the understanding of what makes you, you. That's precisely why it's so important to defend and preserve our histories. They ground us, guide us, and give us a sense of belonging.

So next time you have the chance, dive into your history. Ask questions, listen intently, and appreciate the journey that brought you to where you are today. By doing so, you not only honor your past but also fortify your future against those who might try to rewrite it.