Waking up on a Tuesday morning in a world threatened by wars

 

Palestinians converge for a free meal in Rafah, Gaza. Photo credit: Fatima Shbair/AP

 

It can be extremely frightening, unbelievable, and emotionally upsetting to wake up on a Tuesday morning in a world where war is a threat, particularly when the news of violence comes as a surprise.

 

For some, it starts with a startling message, often accompanied by an urgent tone or a sobbing emoji, from a loved one, such as a friend or family member, declaring that war has broken out.

 

Disbelief is frequently the first response: "What and how could this be? This is not possible. However, it was and still is true. Social media recordings of explosions, missile strikes, or military action, such as a missile striking an airport only kilometers from one's hometown, often provide the initial confirmation.

 

The experience is bizarre for those watching from overseas; they feel physically safe but emotionally powerless, wonder if they should be there to assist, and worry about the safety of everyone they care about. People may suffer from anxiety, hyperventilation, or nightmares as a result of the psychological toll, particularly if they have personal connections to conflict areas.

 

Feelings of being ignored or unheard are exacerbated by a sense of loneliness brought on by the world's seeming indifference or underreporting of the conflict. Many, including children, mothers, fathers, and the elderly, continue to suffer throughout war periods, as many sleep in tents without any heating system.

 

As Ukraine enters its fourth winter under full-scale invasion, millions of civilians are enduring severe hardships due to relentless attacks, widespread power outages, and freezing temperatures, which are straining an already exhausted population.

 

Ongoing strikes on energy infrastructure have left entire communities uncertain about access to heat, electricity, and clean water, while fresh displacement continues along active frontlines.

 

The situation is particularly dire for vulnerable groups, including low-income residents in poorly constructed high-rise buildings; elderly and mobility-limited individuals living near the frontline, estimated at least half a million people within 20 kilometers of the front; and internally displaced people (IDPs) who remain in precarious conditions after years of displacement.

 

Access to medical care has become a critical concern, with over 70% of surveyed individuals identifying it as their most urgent need, and more than 60% of households lacking sufficient heating this winter. One in five families suffers from health issues linked to cold indoor temperatures, and over half of respondents cannot afford essential medicines, exacerbating a growing health crisis.

 

The psychological toll is equally severe, with over one-third of the population reporting mental health issues, and nearly 90% of families in frontline areas grappling with anxiety, stress, or sadness. Children are especially vulnerable, with 1.5 million at risk of developing post-traumatic stress syndrome and other mental health challenges.

 

Humanitarian agencies warn that this winter could be one of the most difficult yet, as intensified bombardment, worsening access constraints, and growing funding gaps threaten to leave hundreds of thousands without adequate support.

 

Despite efforts by organizations like CARE and the International Rescue Committee to deliver winterization aid such as thermal underwear, gas heaters, warm blankets, and medical supplies, the scale of need far exceeds available resources.

 

The combination of damaged infrastructure, limited access to utilities, and the psychological burden of nearly four years of war continues to place immense pressure on civilians, many of whom are living in damaged homes without protection from the harsh winter conditions.

 

Ultimately, awakening to a world in danger of war is a very personal experience influenced by location, proximity to conflict areas, and emotional sensitivity, but it always entails a tension between the dreadful truth of global instability and the routine rhythm of daily life.

 

Beauty and wealth may contribute to someone’s pride; however, one’s legacy and integrity are more important to me than anything. Everybody has a role to play; therefore, what legacy did you leave behind to be remembered when you passed away? Wars, tribal conflicts, and oppression can’t solve the problems. Love conquers all.