Notes from a Ukrainian Soldier

“Never think that war, no matter how necessary, nor how justified, is not a crime.” - Ernest Hemingway

Today is Nazar Rozlutsky’s birthday. I have been following Nazar’s story since being introduced to him on Facebook by one of the Songs 4 Ukraine members. Nazar is a Ukrainian writer, poet, cook, and historian whose life has been completely upended by the Russian invasion. He now serves as a gunman in the Ukrainian army. On the eve of his birthday, he wrote a post that I’d like to share.

The Day Before My Birthday

Tomorrow I’m going to be 34. A year ago, on my 33rd. birthday, I wrote about my plans and aspirations. Globally, those have not changed, but my mindset is completely different.

Among other things, my fellow soldiers and I often talk about what we avoided as civilians. Yes, we talk about HER. Some call her the Karga with a scythe; some consider her the last necessity; some the beginning of another life; some the end of everything; and some the Great Transition. In any case - regardless of what is the correct meaning - no one knows, and those who know can't share with us.

Seven of my friends and acquaintances have already made this transition since February 24th. The realization that I could join them any day is constantly with me. It doesn't scare or excite me. It just is what it is.

I don't know how or by whom I will be remembered, but would be interested to hear what words will be used to describe me - to talk about my life. God forbid, of course.

So if it doesn't scare you, instead of saying hello, please write under this post whatever comes to mind about me at that time. I would especially like to hear from people who are mistakenly "hiding," and will probably live long after I am gone.

Happy birthday to me or what?!

My friends, the husband and wife duo behind Farba Kingdom, kindly allowed me to use their song, “Save Ukraine” to accompany this piece and wish Nazar happy birthday. Here are the lyrics:

Ukrainian
Кохай мене, як завжди

Нікому не вір

Війна не зкінчилася

А я ще живий

English
Love me as always

Don't trust anyone

The war is not over

And I'm still alive

Happy HAPPY Birthday Nazar. I don’t know you well, but I have been touched and inspired by your words and hope to shake your hand one day. Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights with us.

To follow Nazar’s journey, see: https://www.facebook.com/nazar.rozlutsky.1

To learn about Farba Kingdom, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/371914137591181