Hunting for Smiles
Andrey and his team deliver crucial humanitarian aid and water to communities near the front lines. He’s witnessed the devastating impact this barbaric war has had on people physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Smiles are a rare sight around here these days – almost never. When you actually see them, you react like it’s some abnormal phenomenon. Just like once, I saw a rainbow in the middle of winter.
Her genuine and heartfelt smile came from the depths of her soul. It shows all 32 teeth, or how many are left, creating wrinkles around the eyes. This isn’t a forced grin for a mundane photo opportunity, but as if the sun suddenly peeked through the clouds, illuminating everything. It was as if, for a moment, all the sorrow had been forgotten, as if, for a moment, someone returned to a carefree, peaceful life.
Yet, all too quickly, the clouds gathered again, obscuring that bright ray of light. Life returned to its grim reality—the constant anxiety, wailing air raid sirens, the daily fight for survival, the tiredness, and eyes heavy with weariness.
Think about this transformation. The woman’s smile has vanished, replaced by a strained expression—a bitter and sad smile. She is no longer someone with a joyful heart, but someone weighed down by life’s burdens.
This is one of the many evils inflicted by war, one of the many crimes committed by the enemy. They’ve robbed more than just a smile; they’ve stolen joy itself—the simple joy of human beings.
I think I paid a compliment to the woman in this photo. This brought such a genuine smile. She appreciated it, and I felt pleased as well.
Being a hunter of smiles, I wonder if I will see more emerge. Let’s join in the hunt for smiles – let’s encourage them and celebrate their beauty! Brother Andriy
