I am soon to be 75 years young…. & a Veteran Navy RN , having served during the Vietnam war.
Myself and other friends in our Sr. Living community, have made signs…. Have, & are continuing to peacefully demonstrate again today, for our Democracy, & the governing for which it represents & stands for.
Many of us remember & perhaps demonstrated during the Vietnam era demonstrations.
As an RN who took care of the amputees & related injuries, returning from the Vietnam War;
I personally know of the devastation that comes with war .
I deeply desire that my country avoid yet another time of war… which during these difficult times, could easily evolve into a reliving of civil war.
My friends and I will be out peacefully demonstrating, today & in the future as the need arises.
I encourage any of you that can make your concerns & desire to continue living in a democratically governed country, albeit not a ‘perfect union’… today reflect on the vision of a future you want to see for yourselves of course; but perhaps even more importantly, for that vision which will be passed on to the upcoming generations, & needs to be given to each other, our families… & all of the children, right now.
This will include not just those living in our (once) United States of America; but also will have a lasting impact on the other countries of our world, & on how we will move forward in caring for this beautiful planet, that we have been so blessed to be inhabiting.
Thank you for taking some time to mindfully, & thoughtfully consider, what you want to see our future become, & perhaps also, what actions you might take to protect & nurture that vision.🙏🏻💟
i’m 50 and have attended the last two protests with a 78 year old gentleman i met as a poll worker last year. thank you for speaking up. thank you for your service to freedom- both then and today.
I'm sharing this. I know people who are going to be protesting today. And people who may be afraid to protest. Every voice that speaks in solidarity may help someone else find the courage and hope they need. Thank you for reminding us that the world is watching, standing up with them, praying for their safety.
Thank you for your words Sheryll. I am afraid. And needing to convince myself to go to my local protest. I need to stand by my own words. I need to stand up for those who can't. But I am still uncertain. I hate that I can't just go without fear.
Words are one thing, but showing now, when it really matters, is another.
I tried, and I admire your courage, Al W; did you get the chance to attend? I couldn't get within MILES of my place (I have pictures of what I would've looked like...), but, good news, it was because it was so packed! :D And better news, I haven't heard of any incidents occurring there, so awesome all around. :)
I went for about an hour. It was in Claremont, CA. Whether we were all able to attend or not, we are all together in this fight, in this most challenging time of our lives. There are so many more of us with values, who are kind, and who want to support the community, than those who hate and care only for themselves.
The protest incredulously but then again why are we surprised were peaceful from sea to shining sea. The world is standing in amazement and pride and joy for us for they too supported us from their own posts holding NO KINGS protest in their countries to support us; to support you! To tip their hat to you for they know how hard it must be. But come on out. We are here and we are you and you are us. This time is our time for sure.
Fear is False Evidence Appearing Real; and I have learned the best response to fear is action. In action you are moving thru fear but still fearful; and then courage comes into play.
Courage does not come first. It comes by responding to fear and anxiety with action; then comes courage and by example your action may give another courage; but that is not your responsibility what others choose to do.
Focus on yourself and never let fear imprison you. I just set out prepared as possible with a plan B in hand if things go south; but fully aware things may go south then a plan for that time as well. Prepared but knowing there is nothing more joyful and energizing and good then uniting with my neighbors for a cause.
And the bigger the protest the safer we are in fact; so, let's never turn down the chance to attend. The numbers are important. We literally need at minimum what we saw on Saturday to push out this regime.
As we witnessed it is those great numbers of peaceful protest that we reach a point of pressure -- it is awe inspiring to see as well -- because what you are seeing is the power of the people. It is greater than any power. Yesterday we learned along with our children that we hold this power. That is a gift!
I hope you push thru the fear. It is a prison you have built and then placed yourself within but you hold the key. It's simple -- action. Put your clothing out the day before. Get the coffee ready at the touch of a button. Prepare a breakfast that is easy like oatmeal with fruit. Shower, dress, make the bed, enjoy your breakfast. Put an alarm on your phone 15 minutes before leaving time. Then leave. Once you get in the car you will feel the courage rising and some joy and some anxiety as well; but trust -- if not in yourself in all of us. When you join us smile and never stop smiling. Act As If and soon acting is no longer needed. Good luck. I admire your honesty. Remember: Fear + Action = Courage & Calm
Words cannot express how grateful I am for you, Viktor…Your posts never fail to touch my heart, give me strength and hope, and often fill my eyes with tears for your wisdom and sensitivity and bravery 🇺🇦💕🌻
Victor, my husband and I just returned from a march in a nearby town. We are in our seventies and this is the third one we participated in. Thank you for your words that come from deep within you. Your passion for your family and country comes through your words. We are inextricably linked by the struggle for freedom and preservation of democracy. But your countrymen have it so much worse than we do. Thank you for taking time to create this journal. You are an exceptional man. We stand with Ukraine. 🇺🇦
Thank you for your words of support. I hope you are able to see the protests here throughout the country. You are in our hearts too as we fight this evil.
I just saw a protest sign, “If you treat us like Russia, we’ll fight like Ukraine.” 🇺🇦 You are a guiding light for so many, Viktor. We pray for peace and freedom, too.
I am away from home right now but will be participating in a No Kings protest where I am. I’m a bit nervous but glad to be standing up for democracy. Thank you Viktor and all positive commenters. Victory to Ukraine and the USA! 🇺🇦🇺🇸
It went GREAT. The crowd was peaceful, plentiful, and LOUD. It was a joyful time. I had fun. There were no disruptive incidents that I know of. Thanks for asking!
Peaceful throughout the country. Not one reportable incident. Peaceful! Estimates while we await the final count is that between 5 to 12 million people protested around the country at upwards of 2,000 protests. Here in MA Boston had on million! On 4/5 Boston had 100,000! The photos are on Meidas if you go there but also on google. Peaceful! 100% peaceful.
One of the more recent numbers I'd heard was over 13 MILLION. Now, if we can sustain that kind of activism in letters, town halls, /voting/ in every level of elections (from school boards through to the Mid-Terms in 2026), we'll see a way out of this mess. :)
Victor, I have been so grateful for what you share. . .Now my heart is overflowing with gratitude. We are really in trouble here--not at the same level as you dear Ukrainians, but it could go that way if we are not able to stand up strongly enough against this would-be dictator and his minions.
Have you seen the videos of the "turnout" for Trump's stupid parade? It might not have been storming enough to cancel it (drat), but there was hardly anyone there. He would've LOVED to have had ONE of the crowds there were for his opposition. ;)
I skipped the parade. It is a habit I've formed to turn a deaf ear to all of them. I don't even see the Proud Boys. They come into my view but disturb me not at all. I find what I'm doing is hyper focused on what I can do to save this country for our children and that takes all my energy on top of holding down a job and other family obligations.
Trump and the Regime and their costumed soldiers are small in comparison to the numbers we hold PLUS we also have the support of the world! We are significant. The intruders are insignificant and beatable. We just need to get the work done to effect it.
Also, although at first very distressed I've come to feeling blessed being alive in this time so I can do something positive and productive to affect the landscape our children will inherit.
That is work worth doing and kicks starts my action and shedding of useless unproductive fear. That's been my experience for what it may be worth. I have my ups and downs and my fear and despair; but I find with each I am turning it around and seeing what is positive, not seeing any part of this experience as hopeless and negative.
I see two sides of one coin and function better when I reside on the positive side of that coin informed by reality but believing if we unite, we will most definitely prevail. Thank goodness for this platform for we have grown to know each other; and the protests have done the same. This has nurtured the unity we need to defeat our enemies.
I trust my fellow Americans. I am amazed as much as maybe a newcomer to this country might be by Americans. And I trust you my fellow Americans. Most especially after what we saw on Saturday. Our forefathers and mothers would be proud of us for certain.
Thank you. Subscribed, restacking, and worried for protestors, especially in Minnesota, where a premeditated political assassination and attempted assassination of democratic state lawmakers and their spouses is a dark start to No Kings Day. I worry for an escalation throughout the day across the country.
From what I've heard, the No Kings official site had canceled all their other events there, except for the ones already in progress, because the psycho was still at large. :(
But, on later reflection, the crowds were still massive at events ANYWAY. They finally caught the perpetrator, but I'm wondering what would've happened if he'd appeared at any of those crowds, trying to escape by blending in, and anyone recognized him...
I've just joined Substack and the first voice I came across was yours Viktor. You are remarkable. I'm in England and have met some amazing Ukrainians here. My husband served in the British Army before I met him and he has followed what is happening in Ukraine everyday. We keep you in our hearts. And as we see what is unfolding in the US we are thankful for our democracy in the UK. Our leaders have major faults but seem to be saying the right things now. Our thoughts are with you in Ukraine and the US. 💙
I am soon to be 75 years young…. & a Veteran Navy RN , having served during the Vietnam war.
Myself and other friends in our Sr. Living community, have made signs…. Have, & are continuing to peacefully demonstrate again today, for our Democracy, & the governing for which it represents & stands for.
Many of us remember & perhaps demonstrated during the Vietnam era demonstrations.
As an RN who took care of the amputees & related injuries, returning from the Vietnam War;
I personally know of the devastation that comes with war .
I deeply desire that my country avoid yet another time of war… which during these difficult times, could easily evolve into a reliving of civil war.
My friends and I will be out peacefully demonstrating, today & in the future as the need arises.
I encourage any of you that can make your concerns & desire to continue living in a democratically governed country, albeit not a ‘perfect union’… today reflect on the vision of a future you want to see for yourselves of course; but perhaps even more importantly, for that vision which will be passed on to the upcoming generations, & needs to be given to each other, our families… & all of the children, right now.
This will include not just those living in our (once) United States of America; but also will have a lasting impact on the other countries of our world, & on how we will move forward in caring for this beautiful planet, that we have been so blessed to be inhabiting.
Thank you for taking some time to mindfully, & thoughtfully consider, what you want to see our future become, & perhaps also, what actions you might take to protect & nurture that vision.🙏🏻💟
I am 68 and remember that era. Thank for what you did there in Vietnam Christy.
Indeed, yes. Thank you for your service, Christy. :)
For our CHILDREN and Grandchildren, and Great grandchildren and BEYOND...
👨👩👧💕💕👨👩👦
i’m 50 and have attended the last two protests with a 78 year old gentleman i met as a poll worker last year. thank you for speaking up. thank you for your service to freedom- both then and today.
i appreciate you.
I'm sharing this. I know people who are going to be protesting today. And people who may be afraid to protest. Every voice that speaks in solidarity may help someone else find the courage and hope they need. Thank you for reminding us that the world is watching, standing up with them, praying for their safety.
Thank you for your words Sheryll. I am afraid. And needing to convince myself to go to my local protest. I need to stand by my own words. I need to stand up for those who can't. But I am still uncertain. I hate that I can't just go without fear.
Words are one thing, but showing now, when it really matters, is another.
I understand the fear, Al. I am scared too! But we MUST show up.
And I did! And it was amazing! And it was joyful! We are many and we are courageous.
Bravo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you Linda. 🙏🏼✊🏼
I tried, and I admire your courage, Al W; did you get the chance to attend? I couldn't get within MILES of my place (I have pictures of what I would've looked like...), but, good news, it was because it was so packed! :D And better news, I haven't heard of any incidents occurring there, so awesome all around. :)
How did your event go? :)
I went for about an hour. It was in Claremont, CA. Whether we were all able to attend or not, we are all together in this fight, in this most challenging time of our lives. There are so many more of us with values, who are kind, and who want to support the community, than those who hate and care only for themselves.
Amen! We need to keep that in mind: there are more of us. :)
And heck, sometimes we can even convince them to join us, once they realize it'd be better for them than the Kool-Aid... :-/
The protest incredulously but then again why are we surprised were peaceful from sea to shining sea. The world is standing in amazement and pride and joy for us for they too supported us from their own posts holding NO KINGS protest in their countries to support us; to support you! To tip their hat to you for they know how hard it must be. But come on out. We are here and we are you and you are us. This time is our time for sure.
Fear is False Evidence Appearing Real; and I have learned the best response to fear is action. In action you are moving thru fear but still fearful; and then courage comes into play.
Courage does not come first. It comes by responding to fear and anxiety with action; then comes courage and by example your action may give another courage; but that is not your responsibility what others choose to do.
Focus on yourself and never let fear imprison you. I just set out prepared as possible with a plan B in hand if things go south; but fully aware things may go south then a plan for that time as well. Prepared but knowing there is nothing more joyful and energizing and good then uniting with my neighbors for a cause.
And the bigger the protest the safer we are in fact; so, let's never turn down the chance to attend. The numbers are important. We literally need at minimum what we saw on Saturday to push out this regime.
As we witnessed it is those great numbers of peaceful protest that we reach a point of pressure -- it is awe inspiring to see as well -- because what you are seeing is the power of the people. It is greater than any power. Yesterday we learned along with our children that we hold this power. That is a gift!
I hope you push thru the fear. It is a prison you have built and then placed yourself within but you hold the key. It's simple -- action. Put your clothing out the day before. Get the coffee ready at the touch of a button. Prepare a breakfast that is easy like oatmeal with fruit. Shower, dress, make the bed, enjoy your breakfast. Put an alarm on your phone 15 minutes before leaving time. Then leave. Once you get in the car you will feel the courage rising and some joy and some anxiety as well; but trust -- if not in yourself in all of us. When you join us smile and never stop smiling. Act As If and soon acting is no longer needed. Good luck. I admire your honesty. Remember: Fear + Action = Courage & Calm
Thank YOU, Kristy. Proud to be getting into good trouble with you. Together, we win!
Words cannot express how grateful I am for you, Viktor…Your posts never fail to touch my heart, give me strength and hope, and often fill my eyes with tears for your wisdom and sensitivity and bravery 🇺🇦💕🌻
I couldn't say it better myself!
I am home from the protest now. Here in little Corvallis, Oregon, I saw many people who had attached Ukrainian flags to their signs. Wonderful to see!
How did it go? Peacefully, no incidents? :)
Have pictures? :D
Bless you! I am honored by your support. 🇺🇦Slava Ukraini.
May the US return from this cliff before we fall.
Victor, my husband and I just returned from a march in a nearby town. We are in our seventies and this is the third one we participated in. Thank you for your words that come from deep within you. Your passion for your family and country comes through your words. We are inextricably linked by the struggle for freedom and preservation of democracy. But your countrymen have it so much worse than we do. Thank you for taking time to create this journal. You are an exceptional man. We stand with Ukraine. 🇺🇦
Thank you for your words of support. I hope you are able to see the protests here throughout the country. You are in our hearts too as we fight this evil.
I just saw a protest sign, “If you treat us like Russia, we’ll fight like Ukraine.” 🇺🇦 You are a guiding light for so many, Viktor. We pray for peace and freedom, too.
I saw that one at my local protest too. 🫶🏻💙
I am away from home right now but will be participating in a No Kings protest where I am. I’m a bit nervous but glad to be standing up for democracy. Thank you Viktor and all positive commenters. Victory to Ukraine and the USA! 🇺🇦🇺🇸
How did it go? :) Peaceful? :) Pictures? :D
It went GREAT. The crowd was peaceful, plentiful, and LOUD. It was a joyful time. I had fun. There were no disruptive incidents that I know of. Thanks for asking!
Peaceful throughout the country. Not one reportable incident. Peaceful! Estimates while we await the final count is that between 5 to 12 million people protested around the country at upwards of 2,000 protests. Here in MA Boston had on million! On 4/5 Boston had 100,000! The photos are on Meidas if you go there but also on google. Peaceful! 100% peaceful.
One of the more recent numbers I'd heard was over 13 MILLION. Now, if we can sustain that kind of activism in letters, town halls, /voting/ in every level of elections (from school boards through to the Mid-Terms in 2026), we'll see a way out of this mess. :)
Victor, I have been so grateful for what you share. . .Now my heart is overflowing with gratitude. We are really in trouble here--not at the same level as you dear Ukrainians, but it could go that way if we are not able to stand up strongly enough against this would-be dictator and his minions.
Have you seen the videos of the "turnout" for Trump's stupid parade? It might not have been storming enough to cancel it (drat), but there was hardly anyone there. He would've LOVED to have had ONE of the crowds there were for his opposition. ;)
I skipped the parade. It is a habit I've formed to turn a deaf ear to all of them. I don't even see the Proud Boys. They come into my view but disturb me not at all. I find what I'm doing is hyper focused on what I can do to save this country for our children and that takes all my energy on top of holding down a job and other family obligations.
Trump and the Regime and their costumed soldiers are small in comparison to the numbers we hold PLUS we also have the support of the world! We are significant. The intruders are insignificant and beatable. We just need to get the work done to effect it.
Also, although at first very distressed I've come to feeling blessed being alive in this time so I can do something positive and productive to affect the landscape our children will inherit.
That is work worth doing and kicks starts my action and shedding of useless unproductive fear. That's been my experience for what it may be worth. I have my ups and downs and my fear and despair; but I find with each I am turning it around and seeing what is positive, not seeing any part of this experience as hopeless and negative.
I see two sides of one coin and function better when I reside on the positive side of that coin informed by reality but believing if we unite, we will most definitely prevail. Thank goodness for this platform for we have grown to know each other; and the protests have done the same. This has nurtured the unity we need to defeat our enemies.
I trust my fellow Americans. I am amazed as much as maybe a newcomer to this country might be by Americans. And I trust you my fellow Americans. Most especially after what we saw on Saturday. Our forefathers and mothers would be proud of us for certain.
Thank you, Viktor, this is a precious and beautiful gift. 💙💛
Thank you Viktor Slava Ukraini 🇺🇲
❤️Thank you. Nothing is ever easy!
Thank you. Subscribed, restacking, and worried for protestors, especially in Minnesota, where a premeditated political assassination and attempted assassination of democratic state lawmakers and their spouses is a dark start to No Kings Day. I worry for an escalation throughout the day across the country.
From what I've heard, the No Kings official site had canceled all their other events there, except for the ones already in progress, because the psycho was still at large. :(
But, on later reflection, the crowds were still massive at events ANYWAY. They finally caught the perpetrator, but I'm wondering what would've happened if he'd appeared at any of those crowds, trying to escape by blending in, and anyone recognized him...
Thank you Viktor for standing with us! Ukrainians and Americans will fight for freedom together!
Thank you, Viktor! We’re all in this and we’re so much stronger together!🩵💛🇺🇦
I've just joined Substack and the first voice I came across was yours Viktor. You are remarkable. I'm in England and have met some amazing Ukrainians here. My husband served in the British Army before I met him and he has followed what is happening in Ukraine everyday. We keep you in our hearts. And as we see what is unfolding in the US we are thankful for our democracy in the UK. Our leaders have major faults but seem to be saying the right things now. Our thoughts are with you in Ukraine and the US. 💙