I pass the TV and find myself for almost 3 weeks now shouting, “Look at the mess you are making. Stop it!” The images are bombarding our hearts and minds and the previously unimaginable pain, suffering terrorism and evil are now horrifically real. No apocalyptic movie can ever be made again, because in our lifetime there can never be an imagined scenario that could be seen as entertainment. These people are suffering beyond any belief, and a beautiful, peaceful country is being obliterated. I hope that you have participated in sending aid and prayers.
What can possibly be said this week that isn’t infused with this horror? I do not even need to write this- you know exactly what I will choose to say today. There is really only one story now. People on that screen: the faces of children, the elderly in wheelchairs, the pregnant woman who gave birth after the bombing, the cancer riddled children now without treatment, all demonstrating in real time, power. Their strength in fighting is almost as unbelievable as the reign of terror. We see the tragedy but they refuse to be victims. People, not military trained, are standing up and demonstrating to us all the resilience and fortitude of human spirit beyond any insult. It is shocking and inspiring at the same time.
Some of you at times thought you were living in a hell as your diagnosis, treatments, suffering unfolded. It is hard, no doubt. Cancer changes lives forever. You can, however, gain control of your situation. The very real view into hell we witness this week all reinforces that when your own life feels like “a mess”, trust that you will navigate your own way into a safe light. Having faith is no small effort- you will have the fortitude required, you will not lie down, you will not give in, you will be your own inspiration to others who will see your courage and resourcefulness and borrow it for themselves. Like President Zelensky- you are not searching for safety, you are powering through with a fierce determination.
When someone we love is hurting or ill, we develop an “all hands on deck” movement. So when we see these horrific images, we are moved to do, to rise up and dig deep. Get mad. Get even. Get moving to empower yourself for the fight. Take example from courage never seen before- that lives in you as well. Do not be reactive but be active. Ask for help daily as Zelensky does. Be unafraid and unapologetic.
Let us all be grateful for the many resources we have for our own wellness. Tap into every aspect of care, treatment and support. Have confidence that the human spirit is never extinguished. We have every example of that reality right in front of us. Yes, Putin is making a mess of the beautiful Ukraine, but not of the Ukrainian people. There are at times terrible events that happen in your own life. Take heart that even if every single thing is taken, you will always have your own fearless determination.
May God Bless, comfort and repair the Ukrainian people and guide us all to treasure our fellow man.