A father was born on this day

He is my source to overcome any obstacle and to find energy when it seems all spent

EVERY PERSON IN THIS WORLD WAS ONCE A CHILD and had the opportunity to evolve into a beautiful adult and make a difference in the world. Even those who transformed themselves into the pinnacle of evil, those people we can never associate with the joy and purity of childhood.

Today, October 7th, is the date when, decades ago, the dictator who seeks to destroy Ukraine was born. It’s the day when came to life the most extreme symbol of death in our current times came into this world.

But I have a good reason to remind you that today is also a date of celebration. It's a day about life, not death.

Eight years ago today, October 7th took on a whole new meaning for me. With the birth of my son, a father was also born. When Stepan came into the world, cradled in the strength and love of my Luba, our lives changed forever.

During the pregnancy, I learned so much. I came to understand the importance of a humanized birth and witnessed how oppressive medical care can sometimes be. But there, in that room, amidst smiles, tears, and gasps, I witnessed something even more powerful: the raw force of nature and the beauty of childbirth, of bringing life into the world.

What incredible strength! The ability to overcome any obstacle, to create time when there seems to be none, to find energy when it seems all spent.

Becoming a father gave me a new lens through which to see the world. Eyes that see with more care, more empathy, more love. Today, as I reflect on that day, I know that along with Stepan, a new version of myself was also born.

A self that learns we are capable of more than we ever imagined. That the journey of fatherhood is one full of discoveries and a strength that only grows with every step.

Please know, my son, for your Ukrainian father, who has already missed three of your birthdays, love is not only in the moments we share but also in the cause we are fighting for. And I am in your nation, fighting for the future that will forever be yours.

Even if time passes and Ukraine becomes only a distant memory in your mind, Ukraine will always live in your soul, in your heart. And I will be there to remind you of that, even if thirty years must pass beyond the three we’ve already spent apart.

Stepan, my son, you transformed everything, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Happy birthday.

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