Remember the Words

"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."

These are the words of Martin Niemoeller, a Protestant minister and vocal critic of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.

I often hear his words used when a crisis arises and people are being called to action -- and it's aimed mostly at those who aren't making waves.

Strong sentiment in these words.

And I believe them.

But consider: Niemoeller wrote them in part to expiate for his own antisemitism.

Yes, Niemoeller had antisemitic feelings, by his own admittance.

No, he was not a perfect man.

Remember that when you want to erase the legacies of other imperfect people.

More importantly, remember his words.

And be careful where you draw lines. You may find yourself on the other side of those lines one of these days.