The Face of War and Suffering
By Steve Gahagen
In recent days, we have been confronted with the suffering of war, perhaps in a way we have never seen before because of technology and social media. As I write this blog, it is reported that there are already over 2 million refugees fleeing Ukraine. Seeing families with children trying to find refuge and reading the stories about fathers and sons saying goodbye have been heartbreaking. People who were simply living their lives days ago, going to work and spending time with their families, watching their kids play soccer, have now had it all shockingly taken away. Homes and possessions lost in a moment. After leaving everything behind, refugees are entering into an unknown future. And we know that this same scenario is taking place in other parts of the world, though not as visible. It is tempting to keep our hearts distant from the suffering because it is so overwhelming.
Though I understand the implications and the why of saying no to a no-fly zone and other forms of intervention, it becomes increasingly uncomfortable as the desperate pleas for help intensify. I certainly do not want an escalation of conflict, I have a son who has been deployed to Poland. Yet, we are witnessing in real time the destruction of a country and the suffering of people. It should make us uncomfortable. It shows we are still alive and that our hearts have not become hardened to the pain of others.
It has been inspiring to witness the radical generosity of neighboring countries welcoming refugees, with many people opening their homes to those experiencing suffering and loss. On Sunday, March 6th, the Polish ambassador pointed out that despite the country taking on hundreds of thousands of refugees, Poland has not yet constructed a single refugee camp, likely because the Polish people have welcomed refugees into their homes.
Though you and I probably can’t go to Ukraine to help, this is a time when we can ask how we should become engaged in the suffering around us. How do we make space in our lives for those who are hurting and experiencing loss? It could be a lonely teenager next door or someone who is going through tragic loss and pain at work or school. Times like these can help us break out of our small worlds and see the needs of the world around us. Our greatest stories flow from living a life of sacrificial love and generosity, when we use our talents to serve others.
Questions to Consider:
What images or stories of the recent conflict in Ukraine have impacted you?
What questions come to mind because of the suffering we are witnessing?
How are you and/or how can you use your talents and life experiences to make a difference in people going through loss and pain?