First they came....

When I was in high school, I remember seeing a poster in my English class that had this written on it:

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out --
Because I was not a Socialist.

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.

The quote is by Martin Niemoller, who opposed Hitler and often spoke out against him.

I, for some odd reason, had been thinking of this quote for quite some time and couldn't realize why. Perhaps, seeing the economy in the toilet? Or people losing their jobs? Or perhaps all the natural disasters people have been going through?

For whatever reason, I just had. And then I realized how fortunate I am to say what I want and do what I want (of course within legal limits). Perhaps, that is why I have chosen a field that I can work with artists that are talented and have received a wonderful gift...a voice to sing. Maybe not all artists use this voice for worthwhile causes but nonetheless a voice to sing what's in their hearts.

The point of all this is whatever it is you want to do and say...do it. Whether your politically involved or musically inclined...I think Niemoller would agree.

(To learn more about Niemoller, click the title.)