A human being facing unexpected,
unpredictable and incomprehensible events
relies heavily on experience.
It is in experience that one seeks points of reference, guidance, and rescue.
A human being without experience is helpless.
Experience is a force.
In times of rapid change, in periods of instability,
in moments that are dangerous, unpredictable, and difficult to grasp,
we all seek refuge, points of reference, and help in Memory.
Memory assists in discernment,
in avoiding threats,
in choosing directions, and in making conscious decisions.
Memory is our stronghold, our support,
the source from which we judge the most difficult situations.
From it arises the necessity and hierarchy of our steps and actions.
Memory is a power.
Exactly like experience.
Memory and experience are, in essence, twin concepts
as alike as only twins can be.
They are treasures, signposts, suggestions and warnings.
Today we live in difficult times,
when an order built through immense effort is fracturing,
when international law is violated,
and when entire systems of rules and values are collapsing before our eyes.
Today, the importance of experience and Memory becomes increasingly evident,
as we more frequently encounter situations
that are unexpected, unpredictable, and incomprehensible.
Therefore, we must rely on experience and its twin: Memory.
Memory is not a burden; it guides us toward meaning.
Memory does not arise from obligation, but rather multiplies possibilities.
Memory should be regarded not as a lesson to be completed,
but as a source of genuine support, reinforcement,
of enhancing awareness,
and expanding and deepening our understanding.
Only one who does not value experience will also fail to value Memory.
Your experience, Dear Ones,
so profoundly painful and difficult,
so cruel and nearly unfathomable,
has become the foundation of our Memory.
And thus today, amidst the storms of present challenges and threats,
it is our treasure, our signpost, our suggestions, our warning.
It is our power, both individually and collectively.
Therefore, each day should begin
with a feeling of gratitude, ours toward you - the Survivors.
For if we were to reject Memory and experience,
we would soon again,
like Załmen Gradowski,
accuse even the moon of indifference,
begging it to
“Come, moon; cast a glance from your shining eyes
on this cursed dark earth!”
THE ADDRESS OF DR. PIOTR M. A. CYWIŃSKI
DIRECTOR OF THE AUSCHWITZ MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM