I really enjoyed reading this passage from Wiesel’s book because it got me thinking about human nature in general and the role we all play in the world. He emphasizes certain words like information, knowledge, responsibility, and presence; and defines them in a way I had never thought of before. I agree that there is a big difference between the information we are exposed to and the knowledge we retain from it. It is easy to hear and see information all around us but much more difficult to let it sink in. People don’t want knowledge of tragedies or those in need of help because people don’t want to feel responsible for not acting on that knowledge. Society has truly adopted the saying “ignorance is bliss”. However, Wiesel is saying that responsibility does not always mean acting on everything every time there is a need. He is simply advocating that we be present for others in need. Although we cannot take someone’s suffering away from them and put it on ourselves, we can be there to witness and ease it. When you suffer you need a presence.
In Wiesel’s eyes presence is synonymous with communication. He believes something good comes out of people sincerely talking “with the same respect that one owes to a close friend or to God”. I agree that the world is too focused on individuals than society as a whole and therefore not a lot of communication takes place. We would rather focus on one famous celebrity than a group of starving children simply because it is easy and requires no action. Wiesel does, however, keep a realistic view of what society can and cannot accomplish. He accepts that as a society we cannot help everyone, but expects us to help at least one person and not be indifferent to what is happening around us. Indifference is true evil according to Wiesel, and I would have to agree.
I think you did a good job of incorporating your views in with the views of Wiesel. I especially agree with the last statement, because as I was reading his statement I couldn't get it out of my head.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with everything you say here, on Wiesel's views of human nature, and individual interests vs. society as a whole. I think people do need to take more time to think about others I think this is a really good idea to develop, because it's such a big issue that no one seems to take notice of.
ReplyDeleteWhat pops out to me is the statement about speaking to everybody with the same respect you owe to a close friend or God. When you think about it, it is so true. We all convey energy when we communicate, we all have an aura. When you are there to uplift somebody, even a complete stranger, it can change everything. One positive comment can make them feel better about themselves or make their day happier and more productive. Think about all the times somebody has talked down to you...doesn't it ruin your mood as well?
ReplyDeleteI do agree with your point that it is easier to just focus on the positive instead of the negative because a lot of us feel as though we can't do anything to change the negative. I also agree that when faced with actually having to deal with the negative, a lot of times we want to take the pain away from others, and it truly sucks that we can't. I know that I feel completely helpless when I see people in my family hurting or in need, and it makes me feel bad too, that I can't do anything about it.
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