I’m reminded of a phrase used often during the winter holidays: Peace on Earth, good will toward mankind.
Both peace and good will were stolen from Ukrainians in brutal fashion, forcing them into a war they never wanted.
Instead of basking in the glow of bright lights, inhaling the aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies and imbibing in some holiday cheer, Ukrainians are hunkered down, struggling to survive.
Oh, what they would do for peace on their own soil.
We all face levels of adversity, but nothing like what is going on in Ukraine. Innocent citizens are under attack on a daily basis.
Many are going without power. Securing heat and a full meal must seem like a daunting task. Children are no longer enjoying the carefree innocence they once knew. They must now deal with the gravity of war as adults. Will this leave lasting scars?
This kind of daily torment on a society that simply wants to be left alone, to live in peace, is relentless torture. I wonder, once this is over, how Ukrainians will regard Russians. Will there be bitterness between the countries for decades? Could there be any room for good will toward soldiers whose job it is to obliterate their very way of life?
I’m not a religious person, but I pray that this horrible tragedy comes to an end soon. No human being should have to endure what seems, to me, like a mass crucifixion.
If it hurts just to watch the footage of such oppression, what must it be like to live it?
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