History is filled with individuals who have acted heroically but remain unknown. Every so often, however, their stories come to life, and we see the profound impact one person can make.
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy recently had the chance to share one such inspiring story at a screening of the film “One Life,” which chronicles the extraordinary life-saving work of Sir Nicholas Winton. The poignant film, starring Anthony Hopkins, sheds light on a story that remained largely untold for decades.
Winton, a British stockbroker, orchestrated the rescue of 669 children, most of them Jewish, from the Nazis during World War II. Winton’s heroic actions went unnoticed until researchers and a popular television program brought his remarkable story to light.
Lawrence W. Reed, president emeritus of the Mackinac Center, shared the story of Winton’s courageous efforts in his monograph, “The Difference One Can Make: The Story of Nicholas Winton.” Reed, along with his former Executive Assistant Kendra Shrode, had the privilege of meeting “Nicky,” as friends called him, many times before his passing in 2015.
At the screening, Reed and Shrode shared personal reflections on Winton’s legacy.
“The humility of the man was one of the most endearing aspects of his personality,” Reed told an overflow crowd at a Midland movie theater. “Where would we be in the Nicky Winton story if he and the others who helped him hadn’t mustered courage to do something? Thank God there are people of courage in this world who face danger or adversity and teach us all a lesson about what it means to stand up about what you know to be right.”
Shrode spoke of her interactions with Winton. “He was just a terrific guy. He was a remarkable man and we have wonderful memories.”
The event underscored Winton’s enduring relevance and the importance of honoring those who act selflessly in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The film and the insightful remarks paid powerful tribute to Sir Nicholas Winton’s lasting legacy of compassion and bravery, reminding us all of the profound impact one individual can make.
