By: Pamala Learn
There are so many moments that stick in my mind from this trip. Moments that have lodged themselves in my psyche. Moments that have changed me. There will not be another time when I feel like there is no way out or as if I hurt for something. The picture on the side speaks the loudest for me because it embodies the very essence of evil. Every time I see this picture, my mind is filled with individuals with lives, loves, laughter, family, dreams and hopes. The trip to Auschwitz today was by far the most numbing. Maybe it’s because every day has been about hate or anger. Maybe the number became even more about individuals, especially sharing Howard’s experiences. My mind has been a huge opening that has been filling. I honestly don’t know where I will put it all. One thing for sure. The more that goes in only intensifies the drive to help my students find their seed. The seed that will grow for them as they grow. The seed that will help them learn not only facts but also the bigger lesson. The lesson of peace, acceptance, and most of all an introspective growth. My students will gain a better understanding of the real lessons in life wrapped in historical truth as I have walked the stones and touched the doors that led to death. I will take those moments and add my part to a more peaceful future.