I want to the war to end.
I dream that the world will pay attention to the atrocities and take action against them.
I hope that the roots of sunflower seeds can sprout once more.
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I want to the war to end.
I dream that the world will pay attention to the atrocities and take action against them.
I hope that the roots of sunflower seeds can sprout once more.
Dear Ukrainian war, I hate the way you make me cry,
I hate the way you are currently into a tear.
I hate the war so much it even makes me rhyme.
I hate the lies about you, and the fact you're not at fault at all.
Mostly i hate the way I don't hate.
not even close, not even a little bit,
not even at all.
Eloy, 18 Albuquerque, New mexico
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukrainian war, I hate the way you make me cry,
I hate the way you are currently into a tear.
I hate the war so much it even makes me rhyme.
I hate the lies about you, and the fact you're not at fault at all.
Mostly i hate the way I don't hate.
not even close, not even a little bit,
not even at all.
AS YOU WEEP
MY DAY
BECOMES MY PLEAD
TO WITNESS YOUR STRENGTH
IN FAITH, I SENSE YOUR ACHE
CROSSING THE GLOBE
MAY NOT EVER SENSE
YOUR EARTH,
BUT CERTAIN
YOUR SPINE
Don, 19 San Francisco, CA, USA
I REACH FOR YOU…
AS YOU WEEP
MY DAY
BECOMES MY PLEAD
TO WITNESS YOUR STRENGTH
IN FAITH, I SENSE YOUR ACHE
CROSSING THE GLOBE
MAY NOT EVER SENSE
YOUR EARTH,
BUT CERTAIN
YOUR SPINE
I reach for you as I hug my kids a little closer each night. I sob for you as I turn off their light switchs’. I yearn that one day you’ll be able to get away and fall asleep without feeling so much pain.
Petra, 16 Cleveland Ohio
I REACH FOR YOU…
I reach for you as I hug my kids a little closer each night. I sob for you as I turn off their light switchs’. I yearn that one day you’ll be able to get away and fall asleep without feeling so much pain.
I hope your strength perseveres you through the tough times that you are forced to endure. I want you to have peace and to be able to live a normal life. I dream of a perfect world in which you never had to be put into a position of fear and terror, that you get to live in peace with your family, a friend, a loved one, and be in the presence of the people you love most.
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I hope your strength perseveres you through the tough times that you are forced to endure. I want you to have peace and to be able to live a normal life. I dream of a perfect world in which you never had to be put into a position of fear and terror, that you get to live in peace with your family, a friend, a loved one, and be in the presence of the people you love most.
I dream of needing the people to smile brighter than the sun, I dream of needing the people to hug warmer than the fire burning from flames being thrown onto them, I dream of needing the people to fight braver than the gods fighting to protect there name.
Niquita Odero, 19 Africa, Kenya
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I dream of needing the people to smile brighter than the sun, I dream of needing the people to hug warmer than the fire burning from flames being thrown onto them, I dream of needing the people to fight braver than the gods fighting to protect there name.
Dear Ukraine
My mother-in-law flies your flag in Ohio farm country. The photo I took of her is as proud and defiant as the blue sky and yellow sunflower
Suzanne 68 Cleveland Ohio
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine
My mother-in-law flies your flag in Ohio farm country. The photo I took of her is as proud and defiant as the blue sky and yellow sunflower
Dear Ukraine/you fight the wolves at your door/and in your homes/and when you should be sleeping/and when you should joyful with your sweet children/you fend off the wolves as the rest of us rest/as so many have turned away from you/you fight the wolves
Usa
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine/you fight the wolves at your door/and in your homes/and when you should be sleeping/and when you should joyful with your sweet children/you fend off the wolves as the rest of us rest/as so many have turned away from you/you fight the wolves
I dream of a time in which the poor citizens locked into a war-torn land are freed from their shackles. I pray that this time will hasten its approach towards now.
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I dream of a time in which the poor citizens locked into a war-torn land are freed from their shackles. I pray that this time will hasten its approach towards now.
I hear the cries of newborn babies and
loving whispers of Mothers,
Grandmothers stand ready to defend.
Innocents of PUTIN’S War.
“Then they came for me And there was no one left To speak out for me.”
1939. 1940. 1941. 1942. 1943. 1944. 1945. 2022…
In between moments…
The minutes
hours
days and
weeks of time are
warped
now.
Full measures of HOPE, TRUTH, and LOVE
will win this War, as fear labors every breath
and steals the light.
Centuries of life stories now lay
beneath the rubble of dreams
Cracking spines of history will be our legacy
as we stand by the splintering of bones and
crushing of hearts. Dust of the once free.
In between moments…
My writing hands cannot deliver you to safety.
We must lift our feet to meet our hearts, or
the unbearable weight of betrayal
will be ours to own forever.
“Imagine, all the people, living life in peace.”
Annie Hartford,74 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United
DEAR UKRAINE…
I hear the cries of newborn babies and
loving whispers of Mothers,
Grandmothers stand ready to defend.
Innocents of PUTIN’S War.
“Then they came for me And there was no one left To speak out for me.”
1939. 1940. 1941. 1942. 1943. 1944. 1945. 2022…
In between moments…
The minutes
hours
days and
weeks of time are
warped
now.
Full measures of HOPE, TRUTH, and LOVE
will win this War, as fear labors every breath
and steals the light.
Centuries of life stories now lay
beneath the rubble of dreams
Cracking spines of history will be our legacy
as we stand by the splintering of bones and
crushing of hearts. Dust of the once free.
In between moments…
My writing hands cannot deliver you to safety.
We must lift our feet to meet our hearts, or
the unbearable weight of betrayal
will be ours to own forever.
“Imagine, all the people, living life in peace.”
Annie Hartford,74 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United
Though my words may fail, my heart is with you Ukraine, so far, yet in my heart, you're never far. Through trials that no one should endure. Your strength and sprit remain pure.
EM, 18
DEAR UKRAINE…
Though my words may fail, my heart is with you Ukraine, so far, yet in my heart, you're never far. Through trials that no one should endure. Your strength and sprit remain pure.
I reach for you Ukraine,
The beauty you offer
The silence that is brought
Ukraine
I reach for you Ukraine,
Here, in a place where war is not
Here
How I reach for you
Wondering what suffering to prevent
The beauty you offer
Words that are silenced by
Smoke
Oh, Ukraine, how I reach for you
In our hearts, we ask for peace
We ask for you to be heard
Silence
Silence that has to be broken
How
How might we clear the smoke
One day
One day, the silence will be broken
Beauty in a voice
I reach for you Ukraine
Elisabeth, 21 Utica, United States
I REACH FOR YOU…
I reach for you Ukraine,
The beauty you offer
The silence that is brought
Ukraine
I reach for you Ukraine,
Here, in a place where war is not
Here
How I reach for you
Wondering what suffering to prevent
The beauty you offer
Words that are silenced by
Smoke
Oh, Ukraine, how I reach for you
In our hearts, we ask for peace
We ask for you to be heard
Silence
Silence that has to be broken
How
How might we clear the smoke
One day
One day, the silence will be broken
Beauty in a voice
I reach for you Ukraine
I want your strength and courage to be rewarded with justice and peace. I dream of a world where your country is part of the nations' group who prevail, those who are allied for good, charity, kindness, and humanity. I hope you find continued strength and solidarity to protect yourselves, your democracy, and your people. I think of you every day, and know you are the bulwark against unfairness, greed, and the powers who dismiss humanity.
Cindy, 75 USA
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I want your strength and courage to be rewarded with justice and peace. I dream of a world where your country is part of the nations' group who prevail, those who are allied for good, charity, kindness, and humanity. I hope you find continued strength and solidarity to protect yourselves, your democracy, and your people. I think of you every day, and know you are the bulwark against unfairness, greed, and the powers who dismiss humanity.
To Ukraine, With Sorrow
I write to you with heavy hands,
a heart that breaks, a soul that stands.
Forgive the leader we did not choose,
his empty words, the lives they bruise.
We see your streets now lined with grief,
your homes reduced, your pain so brief—
a moment’s breath, then fire rains,
and echoes fill the bloodstained plains.
Your children’s laughter, now a ghost,
your fathers gone, your mothers lost.
We hear the cries, we see the cost,
we grieve for all that you have lost.
The tyrant strikes, his war obscene,
his hands are red, his heart unclean.
And yet, our leader bends his knee,
as if to blind the world—to flee.
But not all hearts are bought or swayed,
not all are fooled, not all afraid.
We weep with you, we mourn your dead,
we rage at words so falsely said.
And though this night is long and black,
though dreams are burned and won’t come back,
we promise this: the truth still stands—
your fate is tied to these, our hands.
And when the dawn, one day, arrives,
when hope returns, when peace survives,
may you remember, through the pain,
we swore to stand with you—again.
D - Tampa
DEAR UKRAINE…
To Ukraine, With Sorrow
I write to you with heavy hands,
a heart that breaks, a soul that stands.
Forgive the leader we did not choose,
his empty words, the lives they bruise.
We see your streets now lined with grief,
your homes reduced, your pain so brief—
a moment’s breath, then fire rains,
and echoes fill the bloodstained plains.
Your children’s laughter, now a ghost,
your fathers gone, your mothers lost.
We hear the cries, we see the cost,
we grieve for all that you have lost.
The tyrant strikes, his war obscene,
his hands are red, his heart unclean.
And yet, our leader bends his knee,
as if to blind the world—to flee.
But not all hearts are bought or swayed,
not all are fooled, not all afraid.
We weep with you, we mourn your dead,
we rage at words so falsely said.
And though this night is long and black,
though dreams are burned and won’t come back,
we promise this: the truth still stands—
your fate is tied to these, our hands.
And when the dawn, one day, arrives,
when hope returns, when peace survives,
may you remember, through the pain,
we swore to stand with you—again.
Good evening, Ukrainians.
As an American and a firm believer in the principles of democracy and sovereignty, I extend my deepest apologies for the actions of our current leader. He does not reflect the will of the American people—neither in domestic matters nor in our commitment to your nation.
The majority of Americans stand with you. Those who do not have been misled, deceived by rhetoric that serves not the cause of freedom but the ambitions of those who would see it undone.
Vladimir Putin is the aggressor. His unprovoked invasion of your homeland is a stain on history, and it is with great regret that I acknowledge our leader has fallen under his influence—just as many of my fellow Americans have.
But know this: we are not all lost. Many of us recognize the gravity of this moment, and we will do all we can to correct our course. Our bond with Ukraine is not broken, and our resolve to support you remains steadfast.
DEAR UKRAINE…
Good evening, Ukrainians.
As an American and a firm believer in the principles of democracy and sovereignty, I extend my deepest apologies for the actions of our current leader. He does not reflect the will of the American people—neither in domestic matters nor in our commitment to your nation.
The majority of Americans stand with you. Those who do not have been misled, deceived by rhetoric that serves not the cause of freedom but the ambitions of those who would see it undone.
Vladimir Putin is the aggressor. His unprovoked invasion of your homeland is a stain on history, and it is with great regret that I acknowledge our leader has fallen under his influence—just as many of my fellow Americans have.
But know this: we are not all lost. Many of us recognize the gravity of this moment, and we will do all we can to correct our course. Our bond with Ukraine is not broken, and our resolve to support you remains steadfast.
I Want Ukraine to return back to it's beautiful country, I dream that this war can be put behind all of us soon and you guys get to grieve in peace for everything and everyone that has been lost, I hope you stay strong for your country and for your families. We love and will continue to support you!
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I Want Ukraine to return back to it's beautiful country, I dream that this war can be put behind all of us soon and you guys get to grieve in peace for everything and everyone that has been lost, I hope you stay strong for your country and for your families. We love and will continue to support you!
Weep for the souls of the dead in Ukraine
lost to the will of that foulest profane
for those who would keep their own liberty
sacrifice all for home and country
And we in our armchairs sit silently by
cringing and squirming and watching them die
afeared of he who threatens the peace
and wonder if ever his tantrums will cease
Night after night his missiles rain down
destroying their homesteads in city and town
and old folk and children must hurry away
down to the cellars to worry and pray
What then of these leaders observing all this
condemning the violence and tragic amiss
watching that monster who threatens us all
they tell us at ready to answer the call
Whilst another day turns like a leaf on a page
their heartache continues in silence and rage
frozen in grief for those innocent souls
who suffer and perish his murderous goals
Throughout all those Russia’s the people stare down
devoid of all protest or even a frown
existing in limbo their voices becalmed
honed to inertia their mindset disarmed
How sad for poor Russia once gloried in fame
composers and writers resplendent in name
land of all seasons in flower and song
shamed by that madman who does them such wrong
Weep for the souls of the dead in Ukraine
lost to the will of that foulest profane
for those who would keep their own liberty
sacrificed all for home and country
John H. G. UK
DEAR UKRAINE…
Weep for the souls of the dead in Ukraine
lost to the will of that foulest profane
for those who would keep their own liberty
sacrifice all for home and country
And we in our armchairs sit silently by
cringing and squirming and watching them die
afeared of he who threatens the peace
and wonder if ever his tantrums will cease
Night after night his missiles rain down
destroying their homesteads in city and town
and old folk and children must hurry away
down to the cellars to worry and pray
What then of these leaders observing all this
condemning the violence and tragic amiss
watching that monster who threatens us all
they tell us at ready to answer the call
Whilst another day turns like a leaf on a page
their heartache continues in silence and rage
frozen in grief for those innocent souls
who suffer and perish his murderous goals
Throughout all those Russia’s the people stare down
devoid of all protest or even a frown
existing in limbo their voices becalmed
honed to inertia their mindset disarmed
How sad for poor Russia once gloried in fame
composers and writers resplendent in name
land of all seasons in flower and song
shamed by that madman who does them such wrong
Weep for the souls of the dead in Ukraine
lost to the will of that foulest profane
for those who would keep their own liberty
sacrificed all for home and country
Dear Ukraine, I want for all the people of Ukraine to know the true meaning of peace, justice, and freedom. I hope one day that Ukraine thrives in all aspects on their own. I dream and hope for peace from all conflict. I pray that God watches over all his children during times of conflict and peace.
Emily (Ruslana), 28 Sumy, Ukraine
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, I want for all the people of Ukraine to know the true meaning of peace, justice, and freedom. I hope one day that Ukraine thrives in all aspects on their own. I dream and hope for peace from all conflict. I pray that God watches over all his children during times of conflict and peace.
Dear Ukraine, I pray for you/as time goes by/for among the ashes/there is a beautiful blue sky/and among the blood/rich soil/will bring a golden flower to life/which will give you hope/to restore your heart.
Dasha, 9 Naperville, IL
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, I pray for you/as time goes by/for among the ashes/there is a beautiful blue sky/and among the blood/rich soil/will bring a golden flower to life/which will give you hope/to restore your heart.
TO the people of Ukraine: I pray for peace and a free land you deservce. I think of and pray for Ukraine and Palestine. I am so sorry for your continuous and endured pain. May god ent the wars and suffering. Free Ukraine and Palestine!
Valerie, 31 Albuquerque, NM
DEAR UKRAINE…
TO the people of Ukraine: I pray for peace and a free land you deservce. I think of and pray for Ukraine and Palestine. I am so sorry for your continuous and endured pain. May god ent the wars and suffering. Free Ukraine and Palestine!
Dear Ukraine, what you are going through-- the fear and death but also the strength you have. I reach for my own strength through prayers for you, Ukraine, and hope for a victory for you. I want you to be free from the dictatorship of Russia and to be your own free people. Dear Ukraine, I pray for the families and all who are there. Take shelter from the storm. I hope it passes soon. I pray that it does.
Vicki, 59 Oklahoma
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, what you are going through-- the fear and death but also the strength you have. I reach for my own strength through prayers for you, Ukraine, and hope for a victory for you. I want you to be free from the dictatorship of Russia and to be your own free people. Dear Ukraine, I pray for the families and all who are there. Take shelter from the storm. I hope it passes soon. I pray that it does.
I am so far from the land you call home. I reach for you in hope and blessings to bring light out of conflict. I want your skies to be blue and your grass green and waters to run pure. Dear Ukraine may your world become calm and peaceful. I hope you can take shelter knowing that there is hope.
Chris Oklahoma
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I am so far from the land you call home. I reach for you in hope and blessings to bring light out of conflict. I want your skies to be blue and your grass green and waters to run pure. Dear Ukraine may your world become calm and peaceful. I hope you can take shelter knowing that there is hope.
Knowing the Truth about how you have opened your flower to the honeypot of iniquity. How your people beg for the seeds of your Godly sunflower to eat to take root so truth may bloom from their mouths for the world to digest.
I'M SO FAR FROM…
Knowing the Truth about how you have opened your flower to the honeypot of iniquity. How your people beg for the seeds of your Godly sunflower to eat to take root so truth may bloom from their mouths for the world to digest.
I reach for kindness
equality, justice for everyone
single person on this planet.
I want the war to end and
for everyone to drop their
weapons and choose peace
and love for all.
Neha, 27 Staten Island, USA
I REACH FOR YOU…
I reach for kindness
equality, justice for everyone
single person on this planet.
I want the war to end and
for everyone to drop their
weapons and choose peace
and love for all.
I feel pained like an abstract music in this rain.
There was no war in Ukraine yet.
I talked to you.
Growing up in the unstable insecurity of this world,
our conversation was unbridled and unsafe.
Yet we became close as friends.
Still not friends at all.
War broke out in Ukraine.
You go to the war camp to cheer up the fighting soldiers and kill your boredom.
You go to Poland.
Return to Ukraine.
No more talk.
I believe you are alive.
We still have a lot of unrestrained and insecure talk.
When your Odessa will green again,
we will watch the sunset with glass of red wine.
From the roof of your house.
That house,
the American builders ran away with the money
on the pretext of war.
Twaran Aloxola 28 Bangladesh
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I feel pained like an abstract music in this rain.
There was no war in Ukraine yet.
I talked to you.
Growing up in the unstable insecurity of this world,
our conversation was unbridled and unsafe.
Yet we became close as friends.
Still not friends at all.
War broke out in Ukraine.
You go to the war camp to cheer up the fighting soldiers and kill your boredom.
You go to Poland.
Return to Ukraine.
No more talk.
I believe you are alive.
We still have a lot of unrestrained and insecure talk.
When your Odessa will green again,
we will watch the sunset with glass of red wine.
From the roof of your house.
That house,
the American builders ran away with the money
on the pretext of war.
Dear Ukraine,I wish that more could hear your screams,your pleas for help.The hope of freedom still living in the darkness still breathing screaming.Always there.
Katya 14
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine,I wish that more could hear your screams,your pleas for help.The hope of freedom still living in the darkness still breathing screaming.Always there.
Dear Ukraine, you are ancient love captured in embroidery. You are the strum of Bandura played in praise of moist dark earth that blackens fingernails and shelters fungus.
Janice 59 Columbus Ohio
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, you are ancient love captured in embroidery. You are the strum of Bandura played in praise of moist dark earth that blackens fingernails and shelters fungus.
Take Shelter in the Everlasting Arms of God. We pray His justice is swift and sure in this war.
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored!
Glory to God and Glory to Ukraine.
David, 73 Vienna, VA USA
TAKE SHELTER…
Take Shelter in the Everlasting Arms of God. We pray His justice is swift and sure in this war.
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored!
Glory to God and Glory to Ukraine.
Dear Ukraine, it is so painful to see your hurt, yet so inspiring to see your bravery, Your resistance to evil war crimes, and resolve to liberate Crimea and all Ukraine from west to the east, south to north, with finality.
Dear Ukraine we do feel your pain by the hour.
We fly your flag by our door with our own Stars and Stripes, we long to see your sunflower rise again in the blue sky in power.
You’ll again have beauteous cities and fruitful plains as the breadbasket of Europe with your golden grain.
We long to see you in NATO, in the EU and with others who love to see you with your freedom again.
David, 73 Vienna, VA. USA
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, it is so painful to see your hurt, yet so inspiring to see your bravery, Your resistance to evil war crimes, and resolve to liberate Crimea and all Ukraine from west to the east, south to north, with finality.
Dear Ukraine we do feel your pain by the hour.
We fly your flag by our door with our own Stars and Stripes, we long to see your sunflower rise again in the blue sky in power.
You’ll again have beauteous cities and fruitful plains as the breadbasket of Europe with your golden grain.
We long to see you in NATO, in the EU and with others who love to see you with your freedom again.
I want you to know we care, we remember your suffering daily, we think of you throughout the day, we pray without ceasing that you not be depressed.
Putin be put out, that Ukraine be restored, reunited and at rest.
We know your women’s sacrifice who serve while they wait,
as men meet fear with resolve to ensure Russia’s fate.
We pray for Mr. Zelinskyy’s heroic steadfast resolve to inspire and to instill.
We see your refugees and wish all find safe haven until victory be finally achieved --and it will!
David, 73 Vienna, VA USA
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I want you to know we care, we remember your suffering daily, we think of you throughout the day, we pray without ceasing that you not be depressed.
Putin be put out, that Ukraine be restored, reunited and at rest.
We know your women’s sacrifice who serve while they wait,
as men meet fear with resolve to ensure Russia’s fate.
We pray for Mr. Zelinskyy’s heroic steadfast resolve to inspire and to instill.
We see your refugees and wish all find safe haven until victory be finally achieved --and it will!
I reach for a way to comfort and connect, to console and collaborate to conceal you from bombs and catastrophe, to quench the thirst for revenge
With the knowledge that One who sees all will, with terrible swift justice, avenge.
Let Grace be your warm coat and hope of salvation your helmet
Let truth bind your wounds, until all your needs are securely met.
David, 73 Vienna, VA ,USA
I REACH FOR YOU…
I reach for a way to comfort and connect, to console and collaborate to conceal you from bombs and catastrophe, to quench the thirst for revenge
With the knowledge that One who sees all will, with terrible swift justice, avenge.
Let Grace be your warm coat and hope of salvation your helmet
Let truth bind your wounds, until all your needs are securely met.
I’m so far from you physically, yet my heart beats with yours to sustain your years,
To nourish your faith, give blood for your wounds and cry salt with your tears.
I’m so far from understanding an evil enemy who steals kills and destroys
And lies about evil deeds which that darkness enjoys.
David, 73 Vienna, VA USA
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I’m so far from you physically, yet my heart beats with yours to sustain your years,
To nourish your faith, give blood for your wounds and cry salt with your tears.
I’m so far from understanding an evil enemy who steals kills and destroys
And lies about evil deeds which that darkness enjoys.
I am so sorry about what I cannot do. Your battered countryside, your wilted sunflowers, hanging over Orthodox and Greek Catholic crosses or stars of David and the lost children of his nation, of your nation. I am sorry I cannot do more for your youth whose futures are broken. But I know I’m your hearts there is nothing short of victory, and I hope for your freedom, your liberation, your joy. I am sorry I cannot do more than hope.
Cleveland Ohio
DEAR UKRAINE…
I am so sorry about what I cannot do. Your battered countryside, your wilted sunflowers, hanging over Orthodox and Greek Catholic crosses or stars of David and the lost children of his nation, of your nation. I am sorry I cannot do more for your youth whose futures are broken. But I know I’m your hearts there is nothing short of victory, and I hope for your freedom, your liberation, your joy. I am sorry I cannot do more than hope.
What I call home I SCREAM looking for love but all I find is hate and a world that wishes to juice my identity in the name of their beliefs. Dear Ukraine I wish for peace for you and everywhere while it may not come soon I can wish for a pause a breathe forum everything
I'M SO FAR FROM…
What I call home I SCREAM looking for love but all I find is hate and a world that wishes to juice my identity in the name of their beliefs. Dear Ukraine I wish for peace for you and everywhere while it may not come soon I can wish for a pause a breathe forum everything
On the tombstone of the UN
I do not see the reason you
are
to exist,
like League of Nations.
And Your Bureaucracy of
making regulations
Is digging grave -
yours –
by inaction. -
Occupied territories:
Where kids were raped,
Adults were killed,
and vice versa. Terror -
still there
happening.
Why don't you recognize the genocide of the Ukrainians?
You haven't seen the executions?
Or you don't mind the list of crimes
against humanity?
Where are the Geneva Conventions?
The Hague into the void?
All laws and morals were violated,
and what is the reaction?
‘We're anxious’
While the United Kingdom, the US,
And Poland, Latvia
and many worthy nations
cooperate,
Poor Germany and France,
Create vague expressions,
They're waiting for Zelensky's death.
They make commitments and then fail them.
They watch and hope,
that we won't manage.
Old Europe is afraid of our victory,
yet you are dead and barren!
Third World War is already happening,
Nuclear menace closer than ever.
Are you like russians? or the rational?
How do you sleep, United Nations?
Paul, 25 Vinnytsia
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
On the tombstone of the UN
I do not see the reason you
are
to exist,
like League of Nations.
And Your Bureaucracy of
making regulations
Is digging grave -
yours –
by inaction. -
Occupied territories:
Where kids were raped,
Adults were killed,
and vice versa. Terror -
still there
happening.
Why don't you recognize the genocide of the Ukrainians?
You haven't seen the executions?
Or you don't mind the list of crimes
against humanity?
Where are the Geneva Conventions?
The Hague into the void?
All laws and morals were violated,
and what is the reaction?
‘We're anxious’
While the United Kingdom, the US,
And Poland, Latvia
and many worthy nations
cooperate,
Poor Germany and France,
Create vague expressions,
They're waiting for Zelensky's death.
They make commitments and then fail them.
They watch and hope,
that we won't manage.
Old Europe is afraid of our victory,
yet you are dead and barren!
Third World War is already happening,
Nuclear menace closer than ever.
Are you like russians? or the rational?
How do you sleep, United Nations?
I pray for your people, nation, Earth, and family. I pray that the fighting, hurt, and sadness will be still. You are heros on Earth to us.. I may live far away here in Ohio but I long to see you all happy at peace and healthy. Keep fighting you are resilent! I will keep praying!
Samantha, 43 Newark, Ohio, USA
DEAR UKRAINE…
I pray for your people, nation, Earth, and family. I pray that the fighting, hurt, and sadness will be still. You are heros on Earth to us.. I may live far away here in Ohio but I long to see you all happy at peace and healthy. Keep fighting you are resilent! I will keep praying!
The bird is flying in the sky/the sky is full of clouds/the clouds wear white dresses/the dresses are dancing with the wind/the wind is sending hugs to the bird./Peace and Love!
Ty, 31 *
DEAR UKRAINE…
The bird is flying in the sky/the sky is full of clouds/the clouds wear white dresses/the dresses are dancing with the wind/the wind is sending hugs to the bird./Peace and Love!
I'm so far from your suffering and ravaged cities./I reach for you in photographs and radio storytelling./I want your children to know peace, to dream of a future which sings./Dear Ukraine, you are human sorrow./Take shelter in dreams, in open-hearted space and time.
Virginia Green, 65 Washington, DC*
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I'm so far from your suffering and ravaged cities./I reach for you in photographs and radio storytelling./I want your children to know peace, to dream of a future which sings./Dear Ukraine, you are human sorrow./Take shelter in dreams, in open-hearted space and time.
I want your sunflowers to rise in my backyard, a world away from your soil but close enough that I can see them stretch up into the daylight from my kitchen window. I want to admire the way they crane their necks as the hours go by, and fold their glow into the wet dough. It clings to my fingers in clumps as I scoop, knead, shape each pirogi – pinch the edges tight. Twists them twice just to be sure . Dust them in flour as they rest, a boil waits on the stove. In to the water one at a time, I stir tentatively, peek out the window and spy the deer. A grimace - it doesn’t like the petal’s taste.
Malina Infante, 21 Cleveland, Ohio
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
I want your sunflowers to rise in my backyard, a world away from your soil but close enough that I can see them stretch up into the daylight from my kitchen window. I want to admire the way they crane their necks as the hours go by, and fold their glow into the wet dough. It clings to my fingers in clumps as I scoop, knead, shape each pirogi – pinch the edges tight. Twists them twice just to be sure . Dust them in flour as they rest, a boil waits on the stove. In to the water one at a time, I stir tentatively, peek out the window and spy the deer. A grimace - it doesn’t like the petal’s taste.
I could never imagine the pains that come along during war time. Terror, struggle, fear, anxiety are not strangers to me, but never have they been as violent or selfish as the one you suffer. War is so far from beauty, but it also brings out the most of it in those around you. But it also brings out the ugliest and most vile forms a soul can take. I truly hope and wish that everyone has a truly beautiful soul with them, and chooses to be that for someone else.
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I could never imagine the pains that come along during war time. Terror, struggle, fear, anxiety are not strangers to me, but never have they been as violent or selfish as the one you suffer. War is so far from beauty, but it also brings out the most of it in those around you. But it also brings out the ugliest and most vile forms a soul can take. I truly hope and wish that everyone has a truly beautiful soul with them, and chooses to be that for someone else.
Although I can’t imagine relating to the pain you feel, Ukraine, your resilience, strife, courage and bravery can be felt through my computer screen, TV screen and mobile device. I see you. I hear you. I wish you the best always.
Granville, Ohio
I'M SO FAR FROM…
Although I can’t imagine relating to the pain you feel, Ukraine, your resilience, strife, courage and bravery can be felt through my computer screen, TV screen and mobile device. I see you. I hear you. I wish you the best always.
I’m so far from you and yet I feel your pain. I will fervently pray for your restoration. We have a great God who knows our limits and will restore peace, joy, love, and life.
Ram, 49 Cagayan de Oro, Philippines
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I’m so far from you and yet I feel your pain. I will fervently pray for your restoration. We have a great God who knows our limits and will restore peace, joy, love, and life.
I reach for you
From above bombs bursting in air
Lighting the sky with oppression, aggression
Freedom quickly crumpled in a duffle
Shoes on, children gathered, decisions made
Farewells, adieus, goodbyes attempted
Fight, flight or freeze, onward, outward, sadly
Take shelter
Strangers open doors, front, closet, bedroom
Breaking bread on wooden tables
Conversations in many tongues
Body language speaks with smiling eyes
Recognized space for solitude on the rockers
Tissues for tears, memories old and new, sadness and joy
So far
Unanticipated detours with yield signs
No longer just barricades and dead ends
A journey cut with new paths, twists, turns
Roads built by the resilient and determined
One step, one stone, reconstructing home
The citizens, residents, neighbors lock arms, seeking joy
Lynn 62 Port Orange, USA
I REACH FOR YOU…
I reach for you
From above bombs bursting in air
Lighting the sky with oppression, aggression
Freedom quickly crumpled in a duffle
Shoes on, children gathered, decisions made
Farewells, adieus, goodbyes attempted
Fight, flight or freeze, onward, outward, sadly
Take shelter
Strangers open doors, front, closet, bedroom
Breaking bread on wooden tables
Conversations in many tongues
Body language speaks with smiling eyes
Recognized space for solitude on the rockers
Tissues for tears, memories old and new, sadness and joy
So far
Unanticipated detours with yield signs
No longer just barricades and dead ends
A journey cut with new paths, twists, turns
Roads built by the resilient and determined
One step, one stone, reconstructing home
The citizens, residents, neighbors lock arms, seeking joy
Dear Ukraine, I want war and political conflict to cease forever. I dream and pray for God's loving grace to sweep over your land and deliver peace and love to all enemy territories. May God bless you all!
Lindsey F., 38 Dayton, OH*
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
Dear Ukraine, I want war and political conflict to cease forever. I dream and pray for God's loving grace to sweep over your land and deliver peace and love to all enemy territories. May God bless you all!
Dear Ukraine, We always think about your people/because there is war we pray for you./ Be safe, be brave, and/fight for your life. Believe yourself. God love you all.
Tina, 10 Seoul, South Korea*
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, We always think about your people/because there is war we pray for you./ Be safe, be brave, and/fight for your life. Believe yourself. God love you all.
Dear Ukraine, /
I’m sorry that I can only watch from afar as your bright sunflowers are turned to ash./
I’m sorry that I can only cry for you as I watch through a TV screen./
I’m sorry that I can’t stop the corrupted from ripping your lives from your hands./
I’m sorry that I can’t give your soul the freedom it longs for./
I’m sorry that I couldn’t be there for the once vibrant families who were in need./
Dear Ukraine, I’m sorry.
Jolyna, 14
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, /
I’m sorry that I can only watch from afar as your bright sunflowers are turned to ash./
I’m sorry that I can only cry for you as I watch through a TV screen./
I’m sorry that I can’t stop the corrupted from ripping your lives from your hands./
I’m sorry that I can’t give your soul the freedom it longs for./
I’m sorry that I couldn’t be there for the once vibrant families who were in need./
Dear Ukraine, I’m sorry.
Дорога моя Україно, я безмежно сумую / за тобою. З трепетом у душі чекаю на той / момент, коли повернуся до Києва. Я дуже / сумую та хочу зустрітися якнайшвидше. / Хочу бути у себе на Батьківщині: /
Люблю тебе, Україно!
Kira Україна
DEAR UKRAINE…
Дорога моя Україно, я безмежно сумую / за тобою. З трепетом у душі чекаю на той / момент, коли повернуся до Києва. Я дуже / сумую та хочу зустрітися якнайшвидше. / Хочу бути у себе на Батьківщині: /
Люблю тебе, Україно!
I'm so far from your suffering and ravaged cities./I reach for you in photographs and radio storytelling./I want your children to know peace, to dream of a future which sings./Dear Ukraine, you are human sorrow./Take shelter in dreams, in open-hearted space and time.
Virginia Green, 65 Washington, DC*
I'M SO FAR FROM…
I'm so far from your suffering and ravaged cities./I reach for you in photographs and radio storytelling./I want your children to know peace, to dream of a future which sings./Dear Ukraine, you are human sorrow./Take shelter in dreams, in open-hearted space and time.
to see your heroic country free and peaceful again. The sunflower's color represents the bright light you are in the world. Fighting for freedom, fighting for justice, fighting for all of us.
Steven, 45 United States
I WANT, I DREAM, I HOPE…
to see your heroic country free and peaceful again. The sunflower's color represents the bright light you are in the world. Fighting for freedom, fighting for justice, fighting for all of us.
I am so very sorry about the victimization of innocent Ukrainians especially women, elderly, children and babies during this Russian invasion of your country. I applaud the stamina, strength and fortitude of Ukrainians during this time and pray for Peace.
Judy, 79 Weaverville USA
DEAR UKRAINE…
I am so very sorry about the victimization of innocent Ukrainians especially women, elderly, children and babies during this Russian invasion of your country. I applaud the stamina, strength and fortitude of Ukrainians during this time and pray for Peace.
Dear Ukraine,
As you lie in bed, the only thing you should hear is the beating of your heart, but instead, you have to listen to the sounds of bullets being shot and bombs being set.
Dear Ukraine, your flag is yellow and blue to reflect the beaming sunflowers at your feet and the beautiful blue sky above you; but right now, the sky is grey with ash and misery; the falling pettles of the sunflowers represent the fallen lives that have been lost in war.
Dear Ukraine, during this time of heart ship and uncertainty, take shelter in the memories you have from before this ruckus began; the memories that are being kept in the back of your mind; riding bikes along the road, smiling with your families, and baking in the kitchen with the scent of fresh pastries around you.
Dear Ukraine, know that you are kept not only in my heart but in the hearts of many.
i, 12 Ohio
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine,
As you lie in bed, the only thing you should hear is the beating of your heart, but instead, you have to listen to the sounds of bullets being shot and bombs being set.
Dear Ukraine, your flag is yellow and blue to reflect the beaming sunflowers at your feet and the beautiful blue sky above you; but right now, the sky is grey with ash and misery; the falling pettles of the sunflowers represent the fallen lives that have been lost in war.
Dear Ukraine, during this time of heart ship and uncertainty, take shelter in the memories you have from before this ruckus began; the memories that are being kept in the back of your mind; riding bikes along the road, smiling with your families, and baking in the kitchen with the scent of fresh pastries around you.
Dear Ukraine, know that you are kept not only in my heart but in the hearts of many.
Dear Lord, please send your angels to protect Ukraine. Protect them from nations that want to consume them. Let Ukraine continue to be an automatous state and live in the freedom of their own self rule. In Jesus name. Amen.
Kim, 66
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Lord, please send your angels to protect Ukraine. Protect them from nations that want to consume them. Let Ukraine continue to be an automatous state and live in the freedom of their own self rule. In Jesus name. Amen.
Dear Ukraine, I’m not quite certain why America is not responding to this atrocity. I have written President Biden to remind him of who America is. I pray he wakes up and reads my letter and determines he is The President of the United States of America our Commander and Chief and remembers himself. He ought to have been all up in this by now, maybe he will understand who he is and who America is again when he reads what I’ve written. We the people are with you. In God we trust and we ought to be over in your country fighting your enemies which I see is currently Russia. I’ve asked him to do his job and come fight for your speedy liberation. Our Allie’s should come to your aid immediately as well without question. I want to apologize for our lack of response so far. It’s quite embarrassing sitting where I am in sitting in Alabama. So maybe he will eat some breakfast, open up a can of whoop ass, that we certainly have and do his job. That is what America is known for. I’m not afraid of Russia and do not know anyone else that is over here. So I’ll continue to write him and pray to Father God for your country to be liberated right this instance. Leave Ukraine alone Russia or you are going to awaken a great giant that you cannot contend with! I promise when she awakens you will be sorry. Do not make US COME GET YOU VLADMIR🕶. You should have chosen single handed combat with Musk I believe because when Biden figures out who he is and where he is he can read Americas history and determine very easily what she does in this kind of global situation. She takes no prisoners destroys her enemies and then rebuilds infrastructures that need help in the Ukraine we should not rebuild anything in Russia but by God we ought to be sure there is plenty to rebuild there and then Vladimir can figure that out he obviously is bored. Let’s give him somethings to do!
Mary Elizabeth Grubbs almost 49 Decatur, AL USA LAND OF THE FREE AND HOME OF THE BRAVE
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, I’m not quite certain why America is not responding to this atrocity. I have written President Biden to remind him of who America is. I pray he wakes up and reads my letter and determines he is The President of the United States of America our Commander and Chief and remembers himself. He ought to have been all up in this by now, maybe he will understand who he is and who America is again when he reads what I’ve written. We the people are with you. In God we trust and we ought to be over in your country fighting your enemies which I see is currently Russia. I’ve asked him to do his job and come fight for your speedy liberation. Our Allie’s should come to your aid immediately as well without question. I want to apologize for our lack of response so far. It’s quite embarrassing sitting where I am in sitting in Alabama. So maybe he will eat some breakfast, open up a can of whoop ass, that we certainly have and do his job. That is what America is known for. I’m not afraid of Russia and do not know anyone else that is over here. So I’ll continue to write him and pray to Father God for your country to be liberated right this instance. Leave Ukraine alone Russia or you are going to awaken a great giant that you cannot contend with! I promise when she awakens you will be sorry. Do not make US COME GET YOU VLADMIR🕶. You should have chosen single handed combat with Musk I believe because when Biden figures out who he is and where he is he can read Americas history and determine very easily what she does in this kind of global situation. She takes no prisoners destroys her enemies and then rebuilds infrastructures that need help in the Ukraine we should not rebuild anything in Russia but by God we ought to be sure there is plenty to rebuild there and then Vladimir can figure that out he obviously is bored. Let’s give him somethings to do!
Mary Elizabeth Grubbs almost 49 Decatur, AL USA LAND OF THE FREE AND HOME OF THE BRAVE
People of spirit
People of courage
People of freedom before bread
If I had a thousand million sunflowers
There would not will never
Be enough to honor you
The golden spiral of
Life's insistence to survive
At the heart of the sunflower
At the heart of your heart
Dear Ukraine
SL in Huntsville, Alabama USA
DEAR UKRAINE…
People of spirit
People of courage
People of freedom before bread
If I had a thousand million sunflowers
There would not will never
Be enough to honor you
The golden spiral of
Life's insistence to survive
At the heart of the sunflower
At the heart of your heart
Dear Ukraine
So far from your people and school, my friends. So fun to play together, volleyball and soccer in the grass between the two yellowed buildings where we read animal stories with our teacher as she sat at the desk. //
Now when I reach, my friends and family hide in underground shelters with food they get from the store after work. Hide then work, it just depends. //
When can I reach for the girls braiding and creating flowery vinok to throw in the river, everyone running only from boys with kropyva vines, romashky bobbing on all the girls’ heads? //
Now we reach for kids laughing above ground, for flowers to weave, for all people to be happy.
Ira, 15 Charlotte, NC from Ukraine
I REACH FOR YOU…
So far from your people and school, my friends. So fun to play together, volleyball and soccer in the grass between the two yellowed buildings where we read animal stories with our teacher as she sat at the desk. //
Now when I reach, my friends and family hide in underground shelters with food they get from the store after work. Hide then work, it just depends. //
When can I reach for the girls braiding and creating flowery vinok to throw in the river, everyone running only from boys with kropyva vines, romashky bobbing on all the girls’ heads? //
Now we reach for kids laughing above ground, for flowers to weave, for all people to be happy.
A Paean to a Proud People
By: Chris Antoniou
March 23, 2022
Through thick and thin your mettle shines . . . resplendent,
Your core bravely holds the line . . . defendant.
Young and old rich and poor . . . hands held together,
Joined by a shared vision of Ukraine . . . for the better.
The new generation stands firm in the face of terror,
Backs against the wall it knows it must be the victor.
It honors the sacrifices of ten million souls taken,
By Stalin Berea Hitler . . . soulless ones be forsaken.
Now comes another monster . . . his life a parody,
Unknown to him basic decency . . . much less charity.
He miscalculated the strength of a people,
Its tenacity and grit to overcome evil.
The strength springs from many quarters,
Including a rich loving culture of believers.
Artists musicians and writers,
Skaters boxers and vaulters.
Yes Ukraine your people the world over are thriving,
Yet none make us prouder than those now fighting.
💛🙏💪🇺🇦💪🙏💙
Chris, 61 Washington, DC
DEAR UKRAINE…
A Paean to a Proud People
By: Chris Antoniou
March 23, 2022
Through thick and thin your mettle shines . . . resplendent,
Your core bravely holds the line . . . defendant.
Young and old rich and poor . . . hands held together,
Joined by a shared vision of Ukraine . . . for the better.
The new generation stands firm in the face of terror,
Backs against the wall it knows it must be the victor.
It honors the sacrifices of ten million souls taken,
By Stalin Berea Hitler . . . soulless ones be forsaken.
Now comes another monster . . . his life a parody,
Unknown to him basic decency . . . much less charity.
He miscalculated the strength of a people,
Its tenacity and grit to overcome evil.
The strength springs from many quarters,
Including a rich loving culture of believers.
Artists musicians and writers,
Skaters boxers and vaulters.
Yes Ukraine your people the world over are thriving,
Yet none make us prouder than those now fighting.
💛🙏💪🇺🇦💪🙏💙
I reach for you / the way she calls you she / in your strength vulnerability / in your vastness a voice reverberates / a she that mothers / protects / projects / a she that countries / stands tall / shakes her fist / never never falls / surviving as the tears grab / Ukraine
Miriam, 41 Birmingham, AL, and Malta
I REACH FOR YOU…
I reach for you / the way she calls you she / in your strength vulnerability / in your vastness a voice reverberates / a she that mothers / protects / projects / a she that countries / stands tall / shakes her fist / never never falls / surviving as the tears grab / Ukraine
Dear Ukraine, as you suffer/still I see you care for your elderly/your sick/your children./ Your indomitable spirit is alive/ in all of you acts/of caring/ and your acts of love./ Prevail, please prevail.
Lori, 66, USA Winchester, VA, USA
DEAR UKRAINE…
Dear Ukraine, as you suffer/still I see you care for your elderly/your sick/your children./ Your indomitable spirit is alive/ in all of you acts/of caring/ and your acts of love./ Prevail, please prevail.
away from this burning building, away from the smoke and dust and ash falling as snow should, take shelter and take a breath, and drink some tea, and stop running, child on your back. Take shelter because safety is right around the corner, home is right here somewhere.
Juliya, 38 Odesa, Ukraine & Ann Arbor, MI
TAKE SHELTER…
away from this burning building, away from the smoke and dust and ash falling as snow should, take shelter and take a breath, and drink some tea, and stop running, child on your back. Take shelter because safety is right around the corner, home is right here somewhere.
You are the Black Sea, dazzling and wide, the red swings at the park as I swung toward the sky I saw only peace, the eyes of my childhood, you are my father and mother, my sister too, you are me and something real and pure and unlost before the world changed forever.
Juliya, 38 Odesa, Ukraine & Ann Arbor, MI
DEAR UKRAINE…
You are the Black Sea, dazzling and wide, the red swings at the park as I swung toward the sky I saw only peace, the eyes of my childhood, you are my father and mother, my sister too, you are me and something real and pure and unlost before the world changed forever.