what a year it's been...

& it's only March.

What a time to be alive. We emerged from a world shaking pandemic with a clown ass President to navigating our beliefs on a broken system to reaching Level 32 of the game of life, coping with the crisis of war. Media is flooded with heartbreaking moments and endearing speeches from a President who is not only humble but a god damn legend. President Zelensky is the embodiment of a strong leader. Jon Stewart mentioned in one of his podcasts that this is the bright side of the algorithm equation, that in times like this.. these are the moments that need to go viral. I couldn't agree more. Though the context of these stories break my heart, this is the world's chance to feel, hear, and see. It gives me a moment to stop crying about my first-world problems and put things in a grand scheme perspective.
A few years ago, I heavily debated on joining the navy. I thought doing biotechnical work for them would be the most fun job I can pursue. But as time would have it, I couldn't do it. There's a certain requirement with the military where for some reason, gauges weren't allowed. He told me that if I wanted to join, I'd have to get my ears sewn so that when they inspected it, light could not pass through my piercing. Yup, previously I had 7/16th gauges. They'd shrunk down to probably a 0 gauge but they still did not allow it.
So years later, in the midst of the current war in Ukraine, the memory had resurfaced. Scrolling through IG, I notice posts where people deliberating a draft mention they would refuse to fight for their country because they hate their government. I notice veteran friends mention they're ready if they were given the call because they love their country. It's really interesting to see both sides of the coin in one scroll. Everyone rightfully has their own story that shaped their opinions, their two cents.
So my mind wanders and I wonder what stance I would take. Okay, that's a lie. I don't wonder, I know where I stand. I know that if came to the worst case scenario and they'd draft the typical men over 18+, I'd hope they let me volunteer. Bust some Mulan type of shit. Please send me right the fuck away. No questions. Okay, one question. Who will take care of Kuma while I'm gone and make sure he's good? That may be my only question lol
Though I might not be the greatest asset to the military and they're going to have to give me a crash course on everything, I see photos of the people in Ukraine standing back to defend their country and I'm in awe. There is no question why or why not. It is their home, their families, their livelihood. I think about how strong these people are to defend their own. I might be too feeble to shoot a gun, but ya'll need a bitch to pass around ammo? need someone on the radio to ensure proper communication? shit, even someone to pass around waters? hell yeah, dude. Say less.
Power to Ukraine and their glorious people. I pray their strength overpowers the evil lurking in their shadows. I pray for the well being of the families torn apart by these circumstances. I pray the opposition find the truth in themselves. I pray for peace.