Celebrating Thanksgiving in wartime is somewhat different from previous years’ celebrations. Instead of the usual decorations with lots of goodies – there is discreet minimalism here.
On the one hand, the western side: a few carrots, onions, potatoes, pumpkin, apples, pepper, and cabbage from my grandmother’s garden and a few jarred produce “for the winter.” And a beautiful bunch of stalks of grain, tied with a yellow-blue ribbon.
On the other hand, in the eastern one, there are used shells from grenade launchers, a new uniform of a Ukrainian soldier, which he never had time to wear, his boots, and ammunition. We pay respect to all those who died for our freedom, for the childhood of our children, for their future!
And this decoration was complemented by a lonely, war-burnt sheaf of grain.
In school, this morning there were many thanksgivings! Despite pain and war, we have something and someone to be thankful to God for!
We are grateful for the titanic endurance, courage, strength, and warm-hearted Ukrainian titan-warriors. We had a dear guest with us – Max Vavryniuk. In this steadfast warrior, we have seen many defenders who create a wall with their bodies to cover people like us.
They thanked God for medical workers who share in the pain of others 24/7 and never get tired of rescuing the wounded.
They thanked the volunteers who are tirelessly raising support from all over the world.
We are grateful for teachers who teach not only knowledge but also bring light into a child’s life amid darkness.
We thanked parents who, together with teachers, form and educate a new generation of those who will be able to influence.
“Give thanks for everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Nastya Gospodarysko
