A Light In The Darkness

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., is a sombre and gripping place. Each of its four levels details a portion of the horror that left more than six million Jews dead between 1933 and 1945. It is a dark tour through history that you will never forget. Walking through the graphic and heart-wrenching exhibits, you can't help but feel overwhelmed by the sense of hopelessness and loss these people faced daily.
Yet in the midst of bleak tragedy there stands a bright light. On one floor is a large wall, listing the thousands of names of those who assisted the Jews during the Holocaust. These weren't necessarily strong or powerful people (although some of them were in prominent positions). They were shopkeepers, teachers, lawyers, and business professionals. They were old and young, men and women, from numerous countries and backgrounds. Whether these individuals provided food, shelter, money, letters of transport or a new home, they all provided hope. Through their selfless efforts these people quietly restored hope to millions. Their bravery and commitment to humanity was a light in the darkness. They brought purpose when life seemed filled with despair....
The wall stands out because it's a beacon of hope in a place where tragedy abounds. The lives represented there symbolize determination and selflessness in the midst of despair and fear.

- Dr. Norm Wakefield & Jody Brolsma in "Men Are from Israel, Women Are from Moab"