Witnessing ongoing conflicts and their human impacts can be deeply emotional, especially when they resonate with decades of history and pain such as those experienced in Gaza and Jewish communities. The phrase "Wake up!" captures a plea for awareness and action—an urging not to look away from the realities faced by many. From my experience, coming to terms with such prolonged conflict requires us to engage with the historical context, understand diverse narratives, and recognize the shared humanity amidst the political complexities. Living through, or closely following, such events, I've learned that empathy and education are crucial. For years, people around the world have been caught in cycles of sorrow and hope. Commemorating 81 years reminds us not only of the historical struggles but also of the importance of dialogue and peace-building efforts today. The pain expressed on this Thursday morning is a call to all of us to reflect deeply and consider how our understanding and actions might contribute to a more peaceful future. I encourage anyone who finds themselves moved or confused by these events to seek out multiple sources of history, listen to personal stories from those affected, and engage in conversations that promote compassion over division. Healing and progress often start with waking up—to past lessons, present realities, and the possibilities for change.