Remembering Auschwitz

As we honor the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the cruelty and violence of man becomes real once again. It is painful to watch the documentaries, see the images and hear the stories of those who survived. I would prefer not to remember in order to avoid having to sit with the uncomfortableness and the unease. However, what will happen if we don’t remember? Do we not risk repeating history? 

 In a similar way, I believe that it is essential to remember our past, own up to our mistakes and make a choice to do better. Yes, at times we would rather forget, especially when we have done things that have directly or inadvertently harmed others. Yet, do we not also risk repeating the same mistakes over and over if we do not head caution? 

 I believe that we have a choice to beat ourselves up and let our past define us; or we can choose to take responsibility for our actions. Do the repair work and do better each day. 

 Taking responsibility means acknowledging our humanity and making ourselves vulnerable to being judged and criticized. No one likes that, but it is an inevitable step in becoming a better person. 

 Doing the repair work often consists of apologizing and making a promise and commitment to those that we have hurt to do better over and over again. 

 Most importantly, it is then taking concrete steps and actions to show ourselves and others what it means to become kinder, more compassionate, accepting and loving. 

 In the documentary “Auschwitz untold” a female survivor said: “Love is not what you feel but what you do”.

 So instead of sitting around and waiting for life to change things, let’s stand up and one step at a time forge a path to a better future.  

by Ariele Riboh