It’s a cold, brightly sunny springtime Sunday afternoon, and my family has been invited for dinner. The meal is simmering on the stove, and its fragrance permeates the entire house. While the television in the family room blasts the excitement of March Madness basketball, by contrast, in the living room, soft music has lulled my Patti dog and cousin Ben to sleep. The picture is framed in peace, security, and love. I am so very blessed.
I am struck by the realization that no one in war-torn Ukraine is able to experience this tranquil scene, and neither can the families of Russian soldiers, even though their leader perpetrated this suffering. Our duty, one democratic nation to another, is to help Ukraine. We here in the United States have the good fortune of living in a thriving economy with low unemployment. Yes, inflation, here and abroad, means we have to pay more or do without certain things. I understand this is a sacrifice affecting some more than others, yet I contend it’s a small sacrifice resulting primarily from helping Ukraine.
Ukrainian families have already endured over a month of torture by Russian troops. They have fought valiantly to protect their homes and their land. Yet Russian troops and bombings continue to devastate all that is within their path — homes, schools, hospitals, etc. The Russian military is wreaking waste as they seem to be moving toward the port cities along the Black Sea.
We Americans should be proud that our country has been able to provide both military equipment and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. President Biden has been steadfast in his supportive efforts and stewardship during this crisis. I am very grateful for his leadership.
May the days ahead of us here in America continue to reflect our blessings. We have freedom and we live in a lawful and constitutional democracy. We have leadership which appreciates humanity and strives to preserve our way of life. Let us do all we can to help our leaders protect and spread the blessing of peace, here and abroad.
Harriet Hausman
River Forest
