Firsts Quote by Gloria Steinem
“We know from many forms of suffering that what is important first is a witness - people want to know that someone else knows what's happening, that they're not alone - and someone who listens to what is needed and tries to help.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Feminist Discussion, date unknown
People need validation that they are seen and heard; empathy and assistance follow acknowledgment.
In simple terms: Being heard matters; help follows empathy.
Key Takeaway
Listen and act.
Themes
empathy
solidarity
validation
Mood
compassionate
hopeful
Type
advice
inspirational
When to use this quote
- mental health crises
- social movements
- community organizing
Key Concepts
social support
activism
Questions to Reflect On
- Who will you listen to today?
- How can you turn listening into action?
A Different Perspective
Not all listeners can help; resources may be limited.
![“Since I worked with Danny Boyle before on Slumdog Millionaire, we have great success and everything. So, when I first got the script and the screenplay of Simon (Beaufoy) and I was reading it, even before the shoot, some kind of sounds came into my mind and I put some stuff [down] and sent it to…” quote by A. R. Rahman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/573/a-r-rahman-4481_cutting_since-i-worked-with-danny-boyle-before-o_539.jpg)
