What stories will people tell of you?

The whole world is watching how president Zelensky of Ukraine is exactly that: a leader. While the leader of my country says things like “Within existing agreements and conditions we will see what we can do”, Zelensky says things like “I need ammunition, not a ride.”

Today I found out that he was an actor, a comedian even, before going into politics. In fact, Zelensky was an actor who used to play the president. Now he’s an actual president, acting like presidents act in movies. He’s a genuine tough guy, who knows what to say.

His actions speak even louder than his words. The fact that he is on the ground, ready to fight for his country, says it all. Whatever happens next, this is someone people will tell stories of for a long time. Stories will also be told about his many fellow Ukrainians who are bravely standing up to their oppressors. And about compassionate citizens in Poland who are driving their cars to the border to pick up refugees.

A crisis is a moment that makes you think: what stories will people tell of you? It makes me think: what will my daughter say about me, after I’m gone? I hope it’s about doing the right thing. I can look to a former Ukrainian actor for inspiration.