(opinion essay)

Amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the lives of ordinary citizens have been greatly affected. For one woman, Natalia, life has become a constant struggle. She lives in a small village not far from Donetsk, controlled by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, where the sounds of explosions can be heard daily.

Natalia used to work as a school teacher, but the war had forced her to give up her profession. Her school was bombed, and many of her students were injured or killed. She now spends most of her days at home, taking care of her elderly mother and worrying about the future.

Food and basic necessities have become scarce in Natalia’s village. The local market is often closed, and when it is open, the prices are exorbitant. Natalia’s mother had a heart attack, and the cost of the medication had skyrocketed. Natalia tries to make ends meet by selling homemade pickles and preserves at the market, but the profits are meager.

The war has also taken a toll on Natalia’s mental health. She has nightmares about the bombs and the gunfire. She worries about her son, who is fighting on the front lines for Ukraine. She is haunted by the memories of the students she lost and the colleagues who have fled the area.

Despite the hardships, Natalia remains hopeful. She is part of a local community group that provides aid to families in need. They distribute food, clothing, and medicine to those who cannot afford it. Natalia has also found solace in her Orthodox church, where she attends services every week and prays for peace.

Natalia’s story is just one of many in Ukraine, where the conflict has displaced millions of people and claimed thousands of lives. But despite the adversity, the resilience and compassion of the Ukrainian people shine through. Natalia and her son continue to stand and fight for Ukraine, a better future, where they can live in peace and prosperity.