This was the best Independence Day in recent years. The volunteers from the INBUT camp invited everyone—those whose homes are being rebuilt, neighbors, young people from partner NGOs in Anysiv and Chernihiv, and, of course, our defenders. Ulyana—may she rest in peace (how hard it is to write those words)—organized a common *varenyky*-making session (it reminded me of our family preparations for the holidays).Every toast brought tears of gratitude; our singing kept the spirits awake; our dancing and hugs provided strength and faith... all thanks to these incredibly bold, spirited young Ukrainians who chose to stay, and these wonderful, daring people from all over the world who come here to help rebuild. Against all odds.
There was also a meeting with the incredible Halyna Tykhonivna and her friends—who are singers. I truly look forward to returning to see Halyna- once again, I felt that I was meeting a truly special woman—a guardian and a giver—who shares so generously and joyfully. I also met Vira and Dariya from the Youth Center in Chernihiv and took part in a workshop. It was such a joy to see that the city remains alive precisely because of these strong, radiant young women. I love you all and look forward to coming back.
Yesterday, Hafiya sent photos of a completed house, along with updates on the progress of others. I look at these photographs and want to share with you all this very sense of tenacious life—in defiance of the death with which russia terrorizes us. The war is now in its fifth year. Young people from all over the world are rebuilding homes destroyed by the russians. Our daughter and her friends are overseeing the construction. In the village of Anysiv, there is a youth center, and a museum and archive have been established at the local school; these people have endured the horrors of occupation, yet they have not been broken. Love never ends.