12/21/2023 – Thank you for being a listening heart to the people of Ukraine.

Today’s picture is from a photo report by Serhii Korovainyi. The note says, “Your documents are safe under the ceiling. With great respect for you, an ordinary soldier of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.” It’s not unusual for Ukrainian soldiers to leave notes for the owners of the houses they used during active combat in the area. Sometimes, they leave money, sort of “rent” for their stay, and sometimes, they waterproof documents or hide valuables and say where to find them.

From: Ira Kapitonova in Kyiv (Day 665):

‭‭Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts!
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, the holiness of your temple!
Psalm‬ ‭65:4‬

Today, I saw a photo report by Serhii Korovainyi. He was among those who showed the world the Kharkiv region right after its de-occupation and came back to show its life now.

His words about locals struck me deeply. For example, people are happy that at least one of the flashlights they received in humanitarian aid works or that their dogs have finally gained some weight. Here’s another thing he says: “It is clear that people lack communication – they are very open to journalists; everyone invites them in, wants to talk. They have learned to survive and cover their basic needs during the occupation, but they really want attention”.

God created us with a desire for communication. We need to share our joys, but it’s even more important to know we have someone to share our pain with. There’s little people appreciate more than the ability to be heard. Thank you for being a listening heart to the people of Ukraine.

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