Russia, Ukraine & Being A Better You

Summary

The article reflects on the futility of individual action in global conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, advocating instead for personal growth and inner peace as a means to avoid such tragedies.

Abstract

In light of the war between Russia and Ukraine, the author contemplates the stark contrast between peaceful weekend activities and the harsh reality faced by those in conflict zones, where leisure is replaced by preparation for violence. The piece suggests that while direct influence on such events is limited, individuals can contribute positively by focusing on self-improvement, mental and physical well-being, fostering connections, and cultivating deeper thoughts. The author argues that by becoming better individuals through self-respect and personal development, people can make more informed choices, instill higher values in their children, and potentially avert the need for violence in the future.

Opinions

The author believes that traditional means of support like petitions, donations, and protests have limited impact on international conflicts.
It is expressed that succumbing to despair during times of global crisis is not constructive; instead, focusing on personal growth is encouraged.
The text suggests that self-love and respect are foundational to making better decisions and raising children with strong values.
There is an underlying hope that through collective self-improvement, humanity might prevent the occurrence of war and violence.

Russia, Ukraine & Being A Better You

Russia Ukraine & Being A Better You

After you finish work for the week, you won’t be enjoying a relaxing weekend. You won’t be going down the gym, going for a run, watching Netflix's or playing with the kids.

No, this weekend will be different.

This weekend women will be making molotov cocktails and the men will be packing away their smartphones and computers and going off to kill someone.

Can you imagine that? I can’t.

I doubt whether people in Ukraine imagined that either.

As an individual, there is nothing much any of us can do.

We can of course sign petitions, donate food and money and join protests, but after that there’s not much else we can do.

At times like these, it’s easy to succumb to despair but that’s not the right thing to do. Instead of giving into depression, fear and anxiety, we should work on ourselves. Respect our bodies, feed our minds and souls. Connect with nature, connect with friends. Think more deeply and develop our minds.

By doing the inner work, we become better versions of ourselves. When we love and respect ourselves, we can make more informed decisions and raise our kids with higher values. And if we do that maybe, just maybe, we wont ever have to spend our weekends making bombs.

Live Strong, Love & Prosper