War
I felt sad when I got up this morning. There’s war on European soil. First, I would like to apologize to our non-European friends if this sounds hollow to them. In some countries, every day means war, even if it is called something else. These conflicts take place elsewhere. That’s the only reason why they concern us less here. It’s as stupid and as simple as that. The horror of the situation in Ukraine unsettles me. It hurts me when innocent people are harmed. History repeats itself. The first bitter pill we Europeans had to swallow was the tragic Yugoslavian war in the late twentieth century. And now this. There will be refugees again, traumatized women, children, and elders. People intending to return to their country will have lost their homes again. We will pick ourselves up again and collect and donate and yet stand by helplessly again. And afterwards we will vow: «Never again!» again. Lately we have seen more of «us» against «them» the world over. I know things will eventually get better, but I feel like crying. Am I a ridiculous softie, a sentimental crybaby who has nothing more to offer reality than a few cheap tears? Ninety-five percent of all Europeans, from the Atlantic to the Urals, disagree with this war. We have to make the best of this situation and we want to remain confident. We will benefit Ukrainians the most if we believe in them and focus our energy on them! Ukraine is the recipient of international backing and worldwide expressions of solidarity. Countries that have never taken in refugees want to welcome Ukrainians. Elon Musk is providing Internet access via Starlink, which will keep the government and the people in touch with the outside world and give them courage. More effective economic sanctions than before are hurting more of the right people. The war has taken a different turn than anticipated by the aggressor. The population and the army are fighting back. They have many strategic advantages. Maybe our demands, prayers and wishes will help, and justice will prevail? Positive news in general: We will reopen our lounge soon; there are no more mandates. I am happy that I am no longer constantly asking myself where my mask is, that I can see the faces of the essential workers in our stores and that I feel a little closer to people. And even under sad circumstances, spring is coming.
Thoughtfully, Yours
Susanne G. Seiler
nature’s first green is gold
Nature’s first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf’s a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay.
Robert Frost