Voice of Ukraine

From Maia Mikhaluk in Kyiv (340th day of ruzzian invasion): I just learned a new term – Post-traumatic growth. It refers to positive psychological change resulting from a struggle with traumatic or highly challenging life circumstances. Before I only knew of post-traumatic stress disorder.

There is a growing concern about the psychological trauma Ukrainians going through over the extended time of many months of the war. When the war is over, there will be thousands of veterans with PTSD but there will also be millions of civilians who have experienced the horrors of living under occupation, heartbreaking losses, and the stress of ongoing missile strikes. It will take time and help to heal. It’s kind of overwhelming to think about the size of that problem.

But living through war doesn’t have to result in mental disorders. It could actually lead to posttraumatic growth – we can come out of this war stronger, more optimistic, with a greater thirst for life, determination to rebuild our country even more beautiful, with a greater appreciation for our culture and language, with a stronger faith in God. I do believe our faith is the key to turning to growth rather than disorder on that “crossroad” of trauma because faith and God’s presence can give us strength to face trauma and not be crushed.

I am reminded of the song, ‘Another in The Fire’:
There’ll be another in the fire
Standing next to me
There’ll be another in the waters
Holding back the seas
And should I ever need reminding
How good You’ve been to me
I’ll count the joy come every battle
‘Cause I know that’s where You’ll be.

Our praying friends, please add to your prayers for the Victory of Ukraine another special prayer for spiritual awakening and posttraumatic GROWTH for all of us.

31 days left till spring…