Initially I’d planned to write about a different topic, but I couldn’t concentrate on it, didn’t get anywhere with it. Instead I started writing about what was occupying my head. Something that probably takes up a lot of space in others’ thoughts too.
On February 24th I was working for most part of the day. In between clients I heard the news in the background, saw posts on social media and tried to see if the local newspaper could help me comprehend what was actually going on. Russia invading Ukraine. In 2022. How can something like that happen in such a modern world. How can a political leader be so power-mad, reckless and inhumane that he, without hesitation attacks cities and innocent people. People who only want to live a normal, peaceful life.
Some of the last few war veterans that are still alive in Finland I meet regularly at my job. That day we discussed the situation in Ukraine, me and a war veteran. These war veterans fought for Finland when the Russians attacked from the east during World War 2 (Continuation War 1941-1944) and have ever since lived in peace. They are not far from turning 100 and I can only imagine what memories and fears that can be brought back to life when they now after all these years, hear the news that the Russians are on the loose again.
I’m aware that this is not the first time since World War 2 that something horrible is happening in the world, but Ukraine feels so up close. Close geographically, culturally and even close in appearance. This morning I read about what has happened, saw pictures, watched short videos. All the devastation, all human lifes that ended way too soon and all the families forced to flee and leave their men behind to defend their home. It’s hard not to be affected. Hard to not feel the pain. My thoughts are with the people of Ukraine.
When things like this happen it can shake our whole existence. It’s easy to feel hopelessness and powerlessness. It’s okay to feel worried and fearful, but don’t let these emotions control you. Focus on what you can control. We can’t control what Putin will do next, but we can control ourselves, so focus on that instead. You can control how many times you read/listen to the news. Of course we want to stay updated about the current situation, but limit yourself to 1-2 times a day. Also make sure you stick to your everyday routine. Do what you normally do instead of getting stuck worrying. Seek social support. Talk about whatever you need to get out of your system, but make sure that’s not the only thing you talk about all the time. Contribute with your help if that’s something you can offer. Pray if that’s something you normally do, but also remember to take care of yourself. Your suffering is not making the world a better place. We are better at taking care of each other from a state of well-being.
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” -Mr. Rogers
[The photo is from last year at our lake house]