Love amidst the war

Hello All,

What a difficult time for our global community. This unprovoked war is so terrible. I am forever checking news sources to stay updated. I am sending prayers for the leaders and people of Ukraine, for courage, for hope, and, ultimately, for peace. I have been astounded by their incredible bravery against tremendous odds. They are fighting hard – they are literally lying down in front of trucks to stop the forward progress of the Russians. They are demonstrating how important that democracy is – freedom is – their country is. They are the ultimate patriots. They are setting the example.

Even amidst this war, love wins. We have seen this in the support of other countries – the colors of yellow and blue illuminated on monuments, bridges, landmarks – the demonstrations in support – the welcoming of refugees – the coming together of the Western world in ways that has not been seen in decades. In the line of baby carriages left in train stations in Poland from the moms who knew that the tired moms arriving to safety, literally carrying their most important people and possessions with them, could use this important tool. People in multiple nations gathering and sending needed supplies. People who have rented homes in foreign countries that they will not personally visit, so they can provide temporary homes to those who had to flee their own. All of these giving picture brings tears to my eyes.

We have seen love in the people of the Ukraine. Their love of country is unparalleled. They have demonstrated this in countless ways. They are truly the beacons for democracy. Families have been born in underground tunnels – and the look of joy of the proud parents was not dimmed. Lesya and Valeriy got married on the battlefield, dressed in their military uniforms with the bride’s helmet temporarily replaced by a wedding veil. They were surrounded by soldiers who serenaded them. A young girl, wearing a sweater covered in stars, sang “Let it go” in an underground shelter, bringing joy in those moments to all who were with her. The young girl who is knitting little hearts while underground, giving one to a reporter to keep. The young boys who have taken over being the men in their family as their fathers are fighting on the frontlines. The women who have carried their children to safety in other countries over perilous miles – and some returning to fight. Love in so many shapes, sizes, gestures, and actions.

I will continue to pray for the people of the Ukraine – and for all who have banded together across the globe to support them.

At the end of this blog, I have added a picture from Charlie Mackesy, one of my favorite illustrators and authors. It is true that storms come – storms of all natures. Love does win.

Phyl