The story of Dirk Willems exemplifies profound compassion amid dire circumstances. A sixteenth-century Mennonite martyr, Willems was imprisoned for his beliefs but ingeniously escaped his tower using a rope made of knotted rags. Although he successfully crossed the ice-covered moat, he turned back when a pursuing guard fell through the ice, demonstrating incredible bravery and empathy by saving the man who was chasing him. This selfless act, however, led to his recapture and subsequent torture.