Greetings from Kyiv,
I'm writing you from my latest home-away-from-home. I moved in with my buddy T yesterday, and I must say that this place is awesome. It is the nicest of any of the places I have stayed during my travels in Ukraine. Reflecting on my time in Kramatorsk in August, I spent roughly 12 days sleeping on the floor. There were only a few brief moments when I had the luxury of a proper bed before we relocated to a place with even less hospitable conditions. While I've never shied away from unconventional living arrangements (During the hottest months, I must admit that I often complained about the heat), I've come to realize how this can affect one's well-being. It's crucial to remind myself that in all these places, I had a roof over my head, even though one particular abode had seen better days, with loads of bullet holes to prove it. When one is having a difficult time, a makeshift garden-hose shower hardly provides any comfort.
If you imagined this scenario, then contemplate the experience of a Ukrainian soldier who has endured six months in a trench. Perhaps the warm Summer months bring some degree of comfort as they cope with scorching temperatures, and an improvised cold shower doesn’t hurt as much. But as Summer fades and Winter approaches, one can't help but wonder about the hardships these soldiers will face in the next six months. It will not be easy for them.
On Tuesday, I had the privilege of having dinner with my friend John Babiak, a remarkable man from Denver, Colorado. Interestingly, he is the second Coloradan here in Ukraine that I know, and it seems that all three of us represent the Colorful State well! John considers himself a humanitarian, but I would describe him as a philanthropist. His personal mission revolves around spreading happiness to children worldwide, with a particular focus on Ukraine’s children. I met John for the first time on February 24th, 2023, at the Rally for Ukraine event to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the full-scale russian invasion.
Over our three-hour conversation, we delved into many captivating topics, ranging from Alemedia Naval Air Station to healthcare facilities and the joys of travel. I opened up to John about the challenges I've faced and my recent journey. In return, he shared his personal stories and recounted his own experiences in overcoming adversity. It was enlightening to view my challenges through the lens of his experiences. Later, I cherished the moment when he and I engaged in a conversation about language with our waitress, Alaina.
One recurring experience I've had during my trips to Ukraine is what some might call a remarkable coincidence, while others might view it as a divine appointment. I'm unsure what terminology appropriately fits, but whatever you call it, I have had this experience on every trip I have made to Ukraine. While it has occurred to me frequently, during my conversation with John, it happened again. I know enough good people doing work in the areas of John's passions to introduce him to other volunteers. He could easily do a great job doing the work he has continued to do, but by collaborating with other volunteers, we exponentially increase our impact.
Next week, I will be returning to the East to engage in meaningful work, and I am fully prepared to dedicate my remaining limited time here to continue doing good work. Both mentally and physically, I find myself in a significantly improved state, ready for the task at hand. I'm genuinely excited to apply my skills and experiences as a valuable asset to Ukraine's cause and extend assistance to those who need it most.
I firmly believe that Ukraine has already demonstrated its resilience and strength, but this doesn't deter the invaders from continuing their campaign of death and destruction. Sadly, there's still no discernible light at the end of the tunnel. To be frank, it concerns me that Russia's current strategy appears determined to outlast Western support. This war is more of a marathon than a sprint, contrary to what many might imagine.
I am extremely grateful for all the support you have given me. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for all your encouragement. While I frequently operate independently in a foreign land with limited resources, I'm keenly aware that I'm never truly alone. I have the privilege to extend assistance, provide training, offer empathy, forge friendships, and provide much-needed encouragement to individuals who have endured challenges far beyond my own imagination. Your support strengthens my resolve and deepens my commitment to making a positive difference in their lives. It is a privilege and an honor to represent my friends, my family, my community, my country, and my world.