I have been stunned by Russia’s attack on Ukraine this past week. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been hailed as a courageous and honorable leader. As I’m writing this, the country has been holding its own. I pray that Ukraine continues to withstand Russian forces and that the fighting stops.
Many stories are surfacing about the Ukrainian people's bravery and general badassery.
You may not have heard of Valentyna Kostyantynovska. She is a 79-year-old Ukrainian great-grandmother whose photo is circulating on the internet. In it, she is aiming a Kalashnikov assault rifle.
When Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine, she started training as a medic. Here she saw her "dream," the rifle, and learned to use it. She was at the time 71-years-young.
She said, "I cannot do much, I can help the wounded…I will shoot, and I know they will kill me," she said. "And so it should be, so less young people would die."
She didn't leave her country, although we would have understood if she did. She didn't make excuses that she was too old. She jumped in with two feet.
Thank you, Valentyna. You make my excuses seem small.
Remember you're not too old. You can learn new things. You can make a difference.
There is no current shortage of inspiration. Where do you find yours?
(To see a photo of Valentyna, click here.)
YOGA
We are starting another four-week series on Tuesday, March 8th at 7 p.m. That means our meeting dates are on 3/8, 3/15, 3/21, and 3/28. We will explore gentle movement, yin, joint mobility, and restorative poses. This class will be as accessible to everyone, no matter your ability or familiarity with poses. We will spend more time meditating than in previous classes. Classes are recorded if you’re unable to attend live. Investment $50. Ready to sign up? Click here.
Not sure? Send me an email at hello@theblissbeneath.com and I will send you the Zoom link for the first class to try free of charge.
BOOK CLUB
The next Book Club meeting is on Monday, March 7th at 7 p.m. The book is “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towels. Check it out here.