I once saw a quote that said "find something worth dying for, then live for it."
After deeply considering this gem of wisdom, I proceeded to radically change my life I promptly forgot about it.
Recent events reminded me of the saying.
For anyone who does not follow the news, the Ukraine is in the midst of a massive protest. Though the protests have been going on for three months, conditions in Kiev have deteriorated rapidly over the past three days. An estimated 100 people are dead, with over 500 more injured, and the conflict is only escalating. Most news sources are showing violent images, like these:
And yet, despite these atrocities, people have retained their humanity. Lovely moments have been captured as well:
There is something so tragically romantic, so appealing about revolution. Authors and playwrights and cinematographers have exploited this for years. The French Revolution is iconic; "Tank Man" from the Tiananmen Square Massacre is legendary. The often bloody, violent, and painful act of revolution is perpetually glorified. I think I know why. These people have found something they are willing to die for, and they are living for it. They have a voice, and they will use it. They do not fear riot control; they do not fear the army. They have banded together, 350,000 strong, to ensure that they can no longer go unnoticed. Differences and personal beliefs are overcome, as they live their cause. Students, grandparents, families, people of all classes and colors, fighting and dying for a cause worth living for. I think that is beautiful.
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