Volunteers.
Vilma Fiokla Kiure wrote - The word “volontior”, from the English “volunteer”. Certainly not from the Russian, as some people think. In Ukraine it is used for volunteers. Since we work with Ukrainians, it stuck to us. So, who are our volunteers? I managed to talk to many of them, or at least exchange a word. Different professions, mostly small business owners, small entrepreneurs or craftsmen. Shooters and people far from the defence system. Very bright personalities and interesting interlocutors. And Giedrius from Telšiai brought so much positivity to the group that all the problems and misunderstandings turned into another opportunity for a good laugh. The whole group was on the same wavelength. I can't remember when I laughed and laughed so much. My rude Highland jokes were in their place, which is rare. Most of all we had a good sense of humour and that was wonderful. I am writing because most of the volunteers have already gone home. And during the trip one detail stood out. When asked about their motives for joining the mission, everyone I talked to said that they had partisans or exiles in their families. This is how we carry the torch of the freedom struggle through generations!
Continuing the theme - Well, I'll tell you I'm a volunteer. How many more questions will you have to ask to find out what is eaten, where, with whom. When I say Valantior, the phrase of Gintautas Mauricas, which has already become legendary, comes immediately to mind - "Let's get our snouts out of our mouths after the peremogos" - and you know who's ahead of you. You know your political views, and you're deeply pissed off that you don't like zeppelins or borscht. And not Sosnovsky. The goal is one - Ukraine. No matter how and by what means. Single mothers giving away the last of the money they have "saved" from their families and still managing to go to Ukraine, Workers planning a couple of days holiday to go there. Programmers and other similar freelancers working in a bunker at night, hooked up to a generator. Children and pensioners weaving nets and making candles. Sharing useful information and requests for help from others across social space. All in one word - valantior. Social status, appearance, past - it all becomes irrelevant. What matters is Ukraine and the knowledge that Mazzolkis can come to Lithuania.
And volunteers can shout free Palestine and distribute aid to Hamas henchmen.
Photos of life in Ukraine.
