I'm back. Kyiv is verdant. The weather's been perfect. The city streets are a-bustle with people. And here I was anxious about readapting to living with power outages, missile attacks, amidst my people who've been the target of russia's military assault for over 850 days straight. The sun glints off the white and gold buildings of Pecherska Lavra across the river.
Kharkiv was the first Ukrainian city I did service in (in the 90's with YWAM in their Summer of Service mission). I have friends still in Kharkiv and a family that left for the sake of the children. "Tough as nails" is putting it mildly. Any time I have contact, they are of an encouraging demure. I call to encourage them, and they encourage me.
Hello Larissa,
Thanks for the update.
Kharkiv was the first Ukrainian city I did service in (in the 90's with YWAM in their Summer of Service mission). I have friends still in Kharkiv and a family that left for the sake of the children. "Tough as nails" is putting it mildly. Any time I have contact, they are of an encouraging demure. I call to encourage them, and they encourage me.
Hang in there - to victory!
"of an encouraging demure" -- точно!
Talk about resilience and determination. Just amazing. No capitulation. Ever. Stay strong. You will prevail. 🌷
OOPS! Not exactly the best use of "demure" - should have just used "attitude".
Slava Ukraiini!