Russia is raining death on Ukraine’s women and children. Our hands shake but we keep going for love
Our skin has thickened into armour, but I do not want survival to take away my tenderness towards others – or myself
TL;DR
- Ukrainian women are experiencing physical stress responses like shaking hands during Russian airstrikes.
- Despite constant threats and violence, women continue their daily routines, caring for children and working.
- The author's grandmother, who endured WWII, embodied a hardened resilience, which the author now re-evaluates.
- The pressure to remain strong can lead to feelings of personal failure when experiencing emotional responses.
- The author expresses a desire to maintain tenderness and compassion, even if it is considered a risk for survival.