Reflection
Rev. Martin Niemöller was a Lutheran pastor in Germany during World War II. One of this writings was turned into this famous poem that reminds us of the dangers of passivity even as we strive for peace.
First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.
Attributed to Martin Niemoller
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out— because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
Questions to ponder or to journal
- What do you have to say “no” to when you get to the other side of this threshold? What are you saying “no” to so you can say “yes” to this?
- What difficulties will come from saying “no” to those things? It might be your fear of the “no” is keeping you from crossing the threshold–and possibly for good reason! What “no” are you lamenting isn’t an easier decision right now?
Walk to the Baby Whale Tail
Exit the foliage back in front of the Space Needle, then turn left and walk the wide path with the Sonic Blooms (big flowers) on your left, and the Space Needle on your right. Past the Pacific Science Center entrance, you’ll see the whale tail on your right.