Bound
When the traumatic events are of human design, those who bear witness are caught in the conflict between victim and perpetrator. It is morally impossible to remain neutral in conflict. The bystander is forced to take sides. It is very tempting to take the side of the perpetrator. All the perpetrator asks is that the bystander do nothing. He appeals to the universal desire to see, hear and speak no evil. The victim, on contrary, asks the bystander to share the burden of pain. The victim demands action, engagement and remembering, …..The weakest one ...remains the losing party in this silent and unequal dialogue. .....Her experience becomes unspeakable. ~ Judith Herman M.D., Trauma and Recovery







Bound