William Wordsworth wrote that “There are in our existence spots of time, / That with distinct pre-eminence retain / A renovating virtue.” His poem came to mind as I read Colette Davidson’s story today on women flocking to support Gisèle Pelicot, whose husband’s ongoing trial for years of drugging and raping her, and inviting others to do the same, has gripped France.

Colette unfolds the power of one person’s example, as women, moved by Ms. Pelicot’s daily presence in court, have flocked to her side. They’re taking time off from work and traveling to support her and thank her face-to-face. It’s a portrait of that “renovating virtue,” which, Wordsworth continues, “enables us to mount, / When high, more high, and lifts us up when fallen.”