The long-term impact of war.

So much is lost in war. First and foremost, people’s lives, homes, and businesses, not to mention their family heirlooms, such as photo albums and the stories they held.

War not only destroys the homes of countless families and the years of memories within their walls, but it also wipes out a country’s museums and archives, historic buildings, and monuments. War is about much more than a country’s politics; it’s about the complete annihilation of a people’s culture and heritage.

Nothing is left untouched when a country goes through war or an attack. Even when smaller towns and villages are saved, war leaves its mark on everything and everyone within its path of destruction.

How many of the millions who fled their homes because of war have returned? How do you even begin to pick up the broken pieces? Starting over is a struggle, but what about starting from nothing?

How do you rebuild from the rubble?

Land may hold value as a commodity, but a people’s culture is invaluable beyond measure. Preserving a country’s history is vital in protecting a people’s cultural identity.

I’m filled with sadness over what’s happening in Ukraine right now. Heartache for the lives that have been lost and for the millions of refugees, but also sadness for Ukraine as a whole.

Let this be your motivation to record your stories before they are lost. More importantly, share your stories with the people you love most, your community, and the world because storytelling allows us to understand and appreciate our differences without resorting to violence and fear.

“The greatness of humanity is not in being human, but in being humane.” Mahatma Gandhi