To Give Light

Posted on August 9, 2012 by russtowne

Seen at wordsmith.org:

“What is to give light must endure burning.” -Viktor Frankl, author, neurologist and psychiatrist, Holocaust survivor (1905-1997)

Of all of his qualifications I believe it is being a “Holocaust survivor” that makes him most qualified to make such a comment. May the world never again experience such inhumanity toward anyone.

I tend to agree with his comment. The strongest steel requires forging in a very hot fire. Hearts that have never been broken may not truly know what it feels like to be heart-broken. Empathy and compassion are often greatly aided by shared similar experiences.

Russ

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About russtowne

I'm awed by the beauty of nature and the power of love and gratitude. Some of my favorite sensory experiences include waves crashing on rocky shores, waterways in ancient redwood and fern-filled forests, and rain. My wife and I have been married since 1979. We have 3 adult children and 5 grandchildren. I manage a wealth management firm that I founded in 2003. My Beloved is a Special Education teacher for Kindergartners and First Graders. I'm a published author of approximately 60 books in a variety of genres for grownups and children.
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4 Responses to To Give Light

  2. aleafinspringtime's avatar aleafinspringtime says:
    August 9, 2012 at 7:10 pm

    “Hearts that have never been broken may not truly know what it feels like to be heart-broken. Empathy and compassion are often greatly aided by shared similar experiences.” And yet, it is only those who allow the sufferings of life to mould and cleanse their hearts can reach out in shared empathy and compassion. Knowing you, only a greater force of compassion will flow from you. I’m so fortunate to know someone like you. Shaz

    Reply
  3. joannerambling's avatar joannerambling says:
    August 11, 2012 at 6:31 am

    Yes yes yes I agree with both of you…………..

    Reply
  4. Andrea Smyth's avatar Andrea Kelly says:
    August 12, 2012 at 6:39 am

    Beautiful words. I quite agree.

    Reply

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