I’ve never been to Ukraine
not east of Vienna–
I do not know the world
nor the customs of Kyiv
I have never seen a vinok
nor planted a sunflower
I can not pronounce many names
with all the ys and zs and -enkos
I see the cocktail makers in my mind
while their images stream daily
across the screens without screams
but rather stoic, somber resolve.
The metal fight rages as you prove
your mettle to the world.
No bombed building, no embattled bridge
deters the Davids of Ukraine
From the battle with Goliath.
I will root for you while you hold the line
and sling your stone for us.
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