The road to complicity is almost always paved with good intentions and the quiet comfort of not making things worse. 'The longer you remain silent, the more difficult it becomes to speak' isn't just a warning. It's a description of how capitulation actually happens; gradually, then completely.
Bravo Kristen! I'm glad to hear from you and others here who recognize the danger of our times. We have the example of the Nazis to warn us, so we are without excuse. Faithful German citizens must have thought it was the end of the world.
This is a beautiful speech. It brought me to tears. Thank you for sharing it!
I've been sitting with the Bonhoeffer letter a lot myself. It was the thing of his I first read, back in college, and it hit home for me. Perhaps because I'd first heard of Bonhoeffer when I went on the German Interim trip in 1978/9. We got a private conversation with the pastor of the Thomaskirche in Leipzig. The almost week in East Germany was one of the most formative of my undergraduate experiences, partly because of this conversation. He spoke in his own way about many of the things you bring up in this commencement address, and what he said has stayed with me.
I was a history major, years ago. I've also been a pastor and an artist. From the viewpoint of my experience, I can only say thank you, amen, and you will remain in my prayers. What a gift.
I am so grateful for the moral clarity you are bringing to the church, breaking through the muck of complicity and silence. I recently visited the German Resistance Memorial in Berlin and was deeply moved by those who spoke out when national socialism was sweeping Germany. For many, it cost them their lives.
Thanks for this, Kristin. It’s a powerful reminder that we do not walk alone and that listening to those who’ve gone before us can help us find our way.
Realism about the world as it is and inspiration to live in that world as a disciple of Jesus - the perfect duo for this commencement address. I hope they gave you a standing ovation.
And this is affirmation and encouragement for me and others here. Thank you, Kristin.
This truly achingly beautiful. I can imagine many of the students who were blessed to be there will hold your speech as a treasure they can return to as they venture forth in this stunning and brutal world where they're needed.
The road to complicity is almost always paved with good intentions and the quiet comfort of not making things worse. 'The longer you remain silent, the more difficult it becomes to speak' isn't just a warning. It's a description of how capitulation actually happens; gradually, then completely.
That is a marvelous speech! 🙌🙌
I second that!!
Bravo Kristen! I'm glad to hear from you and others here who recognize the danger of our times. We have the example of the Nazis to warn us, so we are without excuse. Faithful German citizens must have thought it was the end of the world.
A speech for all of us in these times.
This is a beautiful speech. It brought me to tears. Thank you for sharing it!
I've been sitting with the Bonhoeffer letter a lot myself. It was the thing of his I first read, back in college, and it hit home for me. Perhaps because I'd first heard of Bonhoeffer when I went on the German Interim trip in 1978/9. We got a private conversation with the pastor of the Thomaskirche in Leipzig. The almost week in East Germany was one of the most formative of my undergraduate experiences, partly because of this conversation. He spoke in his own way about many of the things you bring up in this commencement address, and what he said has stayed with me.
I was a history major, years ago. I've also been a pastor and an artist. From the viewpoint of my experience, I can only say thank you, amen, and you will remain in my prayers. What a gift.
So enjoyed this speech!
For such a time as this.
I am so grateful for the moral clarity you are bringing to the church, breaking through the muck of complicity and silence. I recently visited the German Resistance Memorial in Berlin and was deeply moved by those who spoke out when national socialism was sweeping Germany. For many, it cost them their lives.
Such a soft spoken rebuke, but a wise and authentic one, most assuredly; "It doesn't help to pretend that reality is not real."
What a beautiful speech! I am thankful that you have used your talkative skills well.
Thanks for this, Kristin. It’s a powerful reminder that we do not walk alone and that listening to those who’ve gone before us can help us find our way.
Realism about the world as it is and inspiration to live in that world as a disciple of Jesus - the perfect duo for this commencement address. I hope they gave you a standing ovation.
And this is affirmation and encouragement for me and others here. Thank you, Kristin.
Bravo to the violinist and pianist!
Wasn’t that incredible? Breathtaking.
Tears, me too. So brave and what an inspiring speech Kristen. I applaud you.
This truly achingly beautiful. I can imagine many of the students who were blessed to be there will hold your speech as a treasure they can return to as they venture forth in this stunning and brutal world where they're needed.