Perhaps you have already read that the sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine. According to The Washington Post, sunflowers have become a global symbol of resistance, unity and hope. You can read the article here.
This morning, I read British artist Hannah Nunn’s blog post about a fundraiser she is doing to support people who have been displaced as a result of the crisis. You can read about how Hannah was drawn into taking concrete action here. Her laser cut sunflowers are a beautiful offering in her shop, all procedes will help Choose Love and you can read about them here.
Even as the conflict escalates and seems more overwhelming, people around the world are finding ways to send support to folks caught in the insanity of a despot whose hubris knows no bounds.
I have no idea of what it feels like to be in such a place of conflict. Yet I feel anxious and heart broken and a bit useless. Once I honored those feelings, I began to look around for things to do, ways to help.
I offer two groups to support if you are able.
Batman and I have been loyal supporters of the American Friends Service Committee for years. Founded in 1917, the AFSC “promotes a world free of violence, inequality and oppression”. You can read about the work the AFSC does in the world here.
Chef José Andrés and his World Central Kitchen began serving hot, nourishing meals in Poland within a day of the initial attack on Ukraine and they are now set up at eight border crossings. Read more here.
I try to remember that each morning we wake up gives us an opportunity to make some small change in the world. I may not be helping in Ukraine, but I can help support those who are. And I can actually do what I can in this small corner of the world, volunteering with groups that resonate with my values.
Perhaps you have ideas of ways to take action during this disconcerting time. Please drop a link or thought in the comments, below. I’m guessing all of us would appreciate them.
And in the midst of the madness, there are still bits of joy to recognize and celebrate. Theodore Alan* arrived safely into our world this week. He was a bit early, and his mama and papa (our son, Stewart) navigated some challenging times in the past few months, but all is well now! Our first grandson, Theo joins Maggie and Flora out in the midwest, where cousins are adding up fast! Hannah and her Loren are expecting a baby girl this summer, so we will be trekking out that way more often, for sure.
Dearest ones, know that I am keeping thoughts of each of you close to my heart. These are not easy times to live in, but I will not give up to despair and gloom. If I can cheer you in any way by writing here, I remain grateful for your audience. Steady on.
xoxoxoxo
*Alan was my dad’s name, and I confess I got a bit teary when I heard the news of Theodore’s name.