The world watches with anger and great sadness as Russia continues its months-long bombardment of the Ukrainian people and their infrastructure. While much of the violence appears to have shifted to the eastern regions, Kyiv residents were shocked when explosions once again rocked the country’s capital at the beginning of June.

For those of us who are based in tranquil Kyoto, it is impossible to truly grasp the daily horrors faced by the Ukrainian people who are forced to hide or make the decision to flee, as well as those in the country’s ever-growing diaspora who fear for their loved ones’ safety on the home front. We recognize the heroic bravery of those who have remained or returned to stand firm with pride for their country’s independence. One such individual is Vladyslava Konotopets, who studied abroad in Kyoto from September 2019 to February 2020 and submitted a contribution to this year’s Kyoto Writing Competition. Vladyslava’s husband was required to leave their home to defend Ukraine when the war began, and since that time she and her parents have taken a proactive role in aiding the soldiers and freedom fighters.

We recognize the love that Vladyslava holds for her country and for Kyoto, and we admire her unwavering positive mindset. Therefore, the decision was made to award her a special “Solidarity Prize” for her contribution to our competition. Writers in Kyoto stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian people in this very difficult time. We desire a swift end to the war and wish for the continued health and safety of all who have been affected.

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Blooming Ukrainian Freedom

Now I am standing and breathing Ukrainian air of freedom during the war. The spring has come, and I feel that our lives will blossom as well as starting-to-bloom flowers. I am diving in the memories of my well-being when living in Kyoto a few years ago. My native Kyiv and Kyoto are twin cities, or as Japanese say, shimaitoshi. I know and feel it with my entire heart. The soul of Kyoto is so close to Ukraine’s capital – It is pure, strong and authentic. In Kyoto you keep in touch with nature, history and modern civilization, just as if you became a small part of Japanese history, especially the Heian period. You admire Kiyomizu-dera, Shimigamo shrine, contemplate with Murasaki Shikibu about the future… You ask yourself: “Am I in the miracle?”

Then there is the sudden noise of bombing and a return to reality. “The miracle will be to survive, to stay alive despite the scorching breath of death,” sounds in my head, but I am not afraid of this thought. I very often hear bombing and shooting outside, but there are things I know for sure: This unfair war is unable to stop the charming spring, and death cannot overpower life and the soul’s memories. I will remember my time spent in Kyoto forever. I will be strong enough to wait for peace, to do everything for Ukraine`s victory (its blooming), and for my next journey to the Land of the Rising Sun.

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Vladyslava Konotopets was born and raised in Kyiv, where she married her soulmate. She works remotely at the local university and continues her efforts to build her future, as well as that of her country. She wrote in a follow-up email:

“It’s impossible to imagine a meaningful life without peace and freedom, so I appreciate the recollection of living, studying and working in Kyoto. The friendship between our cities has grown stronger and deeper. The war has shown very clearly who the real friends and brothers of the Ukrainian people are.”