Voice of Ukraine

From Ira Kapitonova in Kyiv (Day 495):

On some days, when I lack words, I am grateful for the talent and words God gives to others.
This poem was shared a lot online. It was written during the defense of the Donetsk airport in the first phase of Russia’s war against Ukraine. Many say this poem was posted on many checkpoints, and even atheists were moved by these words that are still relevant today, nine years later.

Oksana Korchynska shared an incredible story from one of the front-line medical stations. The paramedics brought in a wounded man with severe injuries and gunshot leg fractures. When the doctors at the stabilization station inspected him, they saw some lacerations and shrapnel wounds on the legs, but they were amazed the X-ray showed no fracture. The soldier said he did not doubt he would be okay because he had faith. When the doctors removed his clothes to inspect his wounds, they found this poem tattooed on his body.

My God, please, stay with me right here,
Right in this field, don’t give me fear.
Among the ruin and battle glare,
Lord, do not lead me into despair.

When anguish comes, and all hopes shatter,
Lord, don’t let my fellow soldiers scatter.
My God, please, stay with us right here,
As father’s heart and mother’s tear,

As sister’s love, as brother’s blessing,
As my beloved’s eyes in waiting.
My God, please, stay with me right here
Amid this pain that’s so severe.

Lord, be my keeper and my guard,
Save me from death and munition shards.
My heart and soul to you I give.
God, stay with me! I believe!

Poem by Liubov Burak Любов Бурак (Dzvinka Torokhtushko) in my translation.