The Orange Revolution--Part One
Trip Start
Jan 02, 2005
1
3
5
Trip End
Jan 13, 2005
Ternopil, Ukraine
Saturday, January 8, 2005
A Revolution...but...a peaceful one!
I was so excited to come to the Ukraine and witness firsthand the sweeping changes about to envelope this land!
While I was hoping to be in place during the elections--kinda got sidetracked in Albania instead! But...any-the-ways...I did make it to "U-kray-ina" in time for Christmas! (they celebrate Christmas on January 7!).
And...here is what I found:
A land rich in warmth--the air may be cold...but...the people are warm...so warm!!!
A people aware of corruption...aware of abuse...but intent on righting the wrong...and...through peaceful means!
Sure there is the Eastern European mismatch of public vs. private...social vs. personal--the outward signs of "coldness" continually on display in the streets are in stark contrast with the personal "warmth" found in each extended individual interaction...
But...what you get past the "rude" behavior--pushing, bumping, and stepping to the front of the line...you discover a one-on-one interaction beyond compare!
Case in point:
Kharkiv, Ukraine
The family of Anna, Tania, and Nastya...and their parents.
They met me me upon arrival at the train station and escorted me home. Upon arrival, dinner was served and conversation ensued.
They provide a room of my own--and the three girls shared a sofa bed in the "living room".
They provided a tasty breakfast...and Anna sent me off on a day of sightseeing all over town.
To be continued...
Paul
